Shelf-life and quality of modified atmosphere packed plantains during low temperature storage

Investigations were made on shelf life extension and quality of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) of plantain (Musa paradisiaca) under low temperature (LT) (13 +/- 1 degrees C, 87-92%RH) storage. The changes in physical including textural and physiological characteristics of plantains under MAP during LT storage were significantly delayed compared to openly kept plantains. In MAP plantains mean concentrations of CO2 and O-2 within 7 days of packaging were 5.1 and 5.3%, respectively. MAP of plantains with LDPE films substantially reduced physiological loss in weight (PLW) and fruit spoilage. There was sharp decline in the respiration rate of MAP plantains initially during 7 days of LT storage and thereafter, maintained steady state up to 49 days of LT storage. Pulp to peel ratio in MA packed plantains was relatively increased to 1.8 as compared to 1.6 in openly kept plantains at the end of LT storage. MAP of plantains using LDPE films retained maximum freshness, greenness and firmness and effectively controlled fruit spoilage and extended the shelf-life up to 49 days as compared to openly kept plantains for 28 days under LT storage. The MAP method can be used for storage of plantains with a maximum shelf-life of 49 days under optimum low temperature conditions as well as for long distance transportation or export by sea.