Storage Studies of Ber in Polymeric Films

Abstract

A study was carried out to observe the physiochemical changes in ber (Ziziphus mauritiana L.) of cv. Umran packaged in high density polyethylene films (HDPE) under different storage conditions. Fresh fruit was procured from an orchard at Laddowal farm of PAU where it was harvested at turning stage. The fruits were graded manually and packaged in HDPE films of 100, 150 and 200 gauge thickness, respectively. The films were uniformly perforated to different extent (0, 0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 %). Fruits (1000g) packed in the polymeric films were stored under ambient condition (18–27degree C, 35–75% RH) and under refrigerated condition (7degree C, 82% RH). The physico-chemical analysis was carried out by estimating the physiological loss in weight (PLW), total soluble solids (TSS), ascorbic acid, colour development of the skin and texture of the fruit at regular intervals of four days. The PLW, TSS and colour changes increased with duration of storage, while hardness and acidity followed a reverse trend. The estimated parameters indicated that the shelf life of the fruit could be extended to 15 days under ambient storage and up to 25 days under refrigerated condition as compared to four days under control. The non-perforated film gave better results than the perforated ones. The non-perforated HDPE 100 gauge film showed the best results.