PROLONGING POSTHARVEST LIFE OF 'FRANGI' PAPAYA USING SHRINK FILM

A study was conducted to determine the effects of modified atmosphere packaging on postharvest life extension of ‘Frangi’ papaya (Carica papaya L.). The packaging materials used in the study were paper (control), shrink film wrap and Xtend® film. Fruit of maturity index 2 was wrapped with the three different types of packaging material. Twelve of these wrapped fruits were placed in a storage box. Immediately, the storage box was transferred to a chamber of 12±2°C/85% RH for 3 weeks. Nine fruits of each packaging treatment was taken out from the cold chamber at weeks 0, 1, 2 and 3 and allowed to ripen naturally in a room of 27°C with 70% RH. Fruit quality was evaluated at days 0, 3 and 6 during ripening. The three packaging materials did not affect peel and flesh L* values, flesh C* values, titratable acidity and vitamin C of papaya. In contrast, peel C* and h° values, flesh h° values, fruit firmness, soluble solids concentration (SSC) and pH were significantly (P≤0.05) affected by packaging materials. As storage duration progressed, the L*, C* and h° values of peel, h° values of flesh, fruit firmness, SSC and pH were affected significantly (P≤0.05). Shrink film wrapped fruit had better postharvest quality where the fruit were well-preserved compared to the other two packaging materials. In conclusion, shrink film can be used to prolong ‘Frangi’ papaya postharvest life.