RESEARCH ON THE EFFECTS OF 1-METHYLCYCLOPROPENE AND MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGES ON STORAGE OF NECTARINE FRUITS

The study aimed to determine the effects of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and two modified atmosphere packages (MAP) on major quality parameters of 'Sunny' nectarine variety during storage. The experiment was designed to test the six following variables: a) Non-treated in MAP accepted as the control group b) 1-MCP treatment without MAP, c) MAP1 (Lifepack (R)) d) 1-MCP+MAP1, e) 1-MCP+MAP2 (RipeLock (TM), closed bag) and f) MAP2 with 1-MCP generator. In all treatments, fruits were stored for 56 days at 0 degrees C and 90% RH. Sampling was done at 14 days intervals, and samples were then kept at for 2 days as shelf life (20 degrees C and 70% RH). During storage, the weight loss significantly increased in applications without MAP, and fruits lost their marketable value due to water loss after 28 days of storage with 2 days shelf life. Combined treatments showed slight decreases in fruit flesh firmness during storage. 1-MCP+MAP treated samples reduced the ethylene production during shelf life after cold storage. The effects of MAP and 1-MCP on total soluble solids, titratable acidity, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity parameters were insignificant. The results showed that MAP1 and 1-MCP+MAP treatments maintained quality of nectarine fruit and provided longer storage and shelf life.