Triple layer hermetic bags for safe storage of dry Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) pods

Aflatoxin contamination is a major concern in dry chilli pods during storage, which renders chilli flakes, and chilli powder unsafe for consumption and unfit for trade. Traditional method of storage also results in both qualitative as well as quantitative losses. In our study, we evaluated Purdue improved crop storage (PICS) based triple layer hermetic bags (PICS triple bags) for their efficacy in safe storage of dry chilli pods. Four different types of storage bags including untreated jute bag, polythene bag, triple layer hermetic bag, and fungicide treated jute bag were tested for three different storage periods (2, 4, and 6 month). Results suggest that aflatoxin levels resulting from Aspergillus flavus infection were below detectable levels in chilli pods stored in PICS triple bags owing to the modified atmospheric conditions of hypoxia and hypercarbia conditions created inside the bags. Further, dry chilli pods stored in PICS triple bags for 2, 4 and 6 month recorded no loss in test weight (1000 seeds) and no change in moisture content, whereas significantly moisture loss was observed in remaining treatment bags. Germination percentage of the seeds from the PICS triple bags at 2, 4 and 6 month storage was highest (72%) compared to all other treatment bags. Overall, we conclude that the PICS triple bags were effective in safe storage of dry chilli pods by ensuring detrimental environment to Aspergillus flavus growth and preserved both qualitative and quantitative characteristics including test weight, moisture content, and per cent germination compared to other storage bags.