Response of embul banana (Musa spp.) to modified atmosphere storage

Abstract

Modified atmosphere (MA) that developed in sealed polyethylene bags (PEB) has been found to delay the onset of climacteric in "cavendish" banana. This study was conducted to observe the response of banana variety "embul" to MA. Although, peel colour remained green throughout the storage period (over IS days), firmness of the fruits rapidly declined 12 days after storage, indicating that MA was no longer effective in preventing climacteric respiration. Since fruits kept open ripened after 5 days of storage, this technique could be used to store "embul" banana up to 12 days at ambient temperature. Time taken for ripening was shortened with increasing storage period compared to control. Visual quality rating (VQR) of fruits remained unaffected throughout the storage period. Taste and flavour of the fruits were unaffected up to 12 days of storage.