STORAGE LIFE UNDER CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE OF JONATHAN AND BELLE OF BOSKOOP APPLES, TRADITIONALLY PRODUCED IN BRAN-ZARNESTI AREA

This study is part of the extended research focused on the identification of local fruit varieties, on their nutraceutical properties in order to be promoted on the market both as fresh fruits or processed products with added value. Among the South-East Transylvanian fruits, the old apple varieties Jonathan and Belle of Boskoop are cultivated in traditional orchards of Bran-Zarnesti area. This article aims to present the results of a detailed analysis of the plrysical and biochemical transformations undergone in controlled atmosphere storage by the two apple varieties. Fruits were harvested from a traditional orchard from 40-50 years old trees. planted at 15 x 15 meters. The soil was maintained covered with multispecies grass and the vegetation was mown twice a year for hay production. Fruits were stored in controlled atmosphere cells of 1m(3) capacity and determinations were done on monthly bases. Dry matter content, total soluble sugars and total acidity were significantly different at the two varieties. Similar values for the ascorbic acid content were registered Belle of Boskoop hada low storage life and correlations between parameters were detailed.