Effects of nano-TiO2-LDPE packaging on postharvest quality and antioxidant capacity of strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) stored at refrigeration temperature

BACKGROUND: Nano-TiO2-low-density polyethylene (NTLDPE) packaging was prepared, and the effects of NTLDPE packaging on quality and antioxidant capacity of strawberry fruits were investigated. RESULTS: With increased barrier properties, NTLDPE packaging quickly formed a relative lower O-2 and higher CO2 air composition in comparison with LDPE. It was also more efficient in maintaining the overall quality of strawberry fruit, as reflected by lower decay rate and weight loss, as well as retarding the decrease in firmness and titratable acid. Meanwhile, reactive oxygen species (ROS) including superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide in NTLDPE-packed fruits were 10.8% and 21.9% lower, respectively. Furthermore, the activities of antioxidant enzymes involved in ROS scavenging in NTLDPE-packed fruits were significantly higher at the later period of storage time. Anthocyanin accumulation was inhibited, whereas ascorbic acid and total phenolics contents were better retained and 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity was 13.2% higher in NTLDPE-packed fruit by the end of storage. CONCLUSION: These data indicate that the beneficial effects of NTLDPE packaging on postharvest quality and antioxidant capacity of strawberry are probably associated with the promotion of ROS scavenging and related antioxidant enzyme activities, and NTLDPE packaging together with refrigeration storage is a promising method for strawberry fruit preservation. (C) 2016 Society of Chemical Industry