THE COMBINED EFFECTS OF 1-METHYLCYCLOPROPENE AND MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING ON FRUIT QUALITY OF 'FUYU' PERSIMMON FRUIT DURING STORAGE

In this research, the effects of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatments and furthermore the combination of MAP and 1-MCP on quality of ‘Fuyu’ persimmon fruits during storage period were studied. Modified atmosphere packaging was based on low density polyethylene (LDPE); 1-MCP (Smartfresh™) treatments were 625 and 1250 ppb for 24 hours at 18-20°C. Treated and untreated control fruits were stored at 0-1°C and 85-90% RH for 40, 80 and 120 days respectively. The quality parameters evaluated were; weight loss, fruit firmness, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, skin color and flesh color. Furthermore the decay incidence was determined visually. Postharvest 1-MCP (Smartfresh™) treatments and modified atmosphere packaging affected some quality properties of ‘Fuyu’ persimmon fruits. Thus, the combination of the treatments was found the most effective as keeping the quality.