Umbu tree fruit stored under modified and ambient atmospheric conditions at different maturity stages

The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of fruits of the Brazil Plum at three stages of maturation, when stored under conditions of modified (MA) and ambient (AA) atmospheric conditions. The experimental design used was a completely randomized 2x3x6 factorial scheme of two storage atmospheres (AA and MA), three stages of maturation ('green', 'turning' and 'mature'), and six storage periods at 23 +/- 1 degrees C and 83 +/- 2% RH. The evaluations carried out were for soluble solids (SS), titratable acidity (TA), the SS/TA ratio, weight loss, skin color and general appearance. The SS of Brazil Plum kept under AA were higher than those under MA, with the lowest levels being from the green fruit. The shelf life of the Brazil Plum, harvested when mature and kept under AA, was limited to three days due to excessive weight loss. The use of MA was the determining factor in maintaining the quality of the Brazil Plum stored under ambient conditions by reducing weight loss, keeping its attractive appearance, allowing the color to develop into a deeper yellow, and providing an increase in shelf life for those fruits harvested when green or turning of two and one days respectively.