Mathematical Modeling for Predicting Quality Attributes of Underexploited Karonda (Carissa carandas L.) Berries

Carissa carandas, commonly known as karonda, is an underexploited fruit known for its nutraceutical bioactive molecules. Postharvest management of the berries is a critical concern owing to their perishable nature. In this context, the present study was carried out with the objective of determining the optimal storage conditions for two different genotypes ('White with pinkish blush' and 'Green with purplish blush') under subtropical conditions in Punjab. Using a cubic spline model (CSM), MATLAB code was developed to calculate the CSM coefficients, enabling interpolation and extrapolation of quality for both karonda genotypes during storage. Furthermore, the CSM equations were obtained under two storage conditions (ambient and refrigerated). On the basis of spoilage indicators, i.e., physiological loss in weight (PLW, %), spoilage index (%), and fruit firmness (lb force), it was concluded that ripened berries of both karonda genotypes (packed in low-density polyethylene bags of 25-gauge thickness) can be stored for up to 3 days under ambient conditions and 6 days under refrigeration. The sugars and total antioxidant activity showed a decreasing trend during both storage conditions. We pioneered a mathematical model to predict fruit quality during storage. No such study has been reported in the literature.