POST-HARVEST CONSERVATION OF GUAVIRA (Campomanesia sp.)

This study aimed to evaluate the postharvest conservation of guavira (Campomanesia sp.), depending on the use of 1-MCP and modified atmosphere, as well as storage at room temperature and at 11 degrees C. The fruits were harvested at physiological maturity, divided into portions and treated with 1-methyl-cyclopropene (1-MCP) (700 eta L.L-1 for 12 hours) and modified atmosphere, with plastic packaging. The fruits were submitted to the analysis of weight loss, soluble solids, titratable acidity, vitamin C, total phenols and antioxidant activity and general appearance. The use of 1-MCP did not reduce the fruit weight loss in both ambient and cold storage, which was verified using the modified atmosphere. The cold storage reduced the mass loss of the fruits and extended the shelf life maintaining the levels of vitamin C, total phenolics and antioxidant activity contents. The final concentration of soluble solids and vitamin C of the fruits showed no significant interference in relation to treatments. The titratable acidity values increased during the storage period, with the exception of fruits treated with 1-MCP associated with modified atmosphere and stored in room temperature. The use of 1-MCP and modified atmosphere extended the shelf life of fruits both in storage environment and cold, with a better overall appearance of the fruit, especially when combined.