Effect of mechanical vibration on postharvest quality and volatile compounds of blueberry fruit

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of mechanical vibration on postharvest quality and volatile compounds in blueberries (Vaccinium spp. Berkeley). Ethylene production, respiratory rate, firmness, decay incidence, soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acid content (TAC), flavonoid content, total phenols content (TPC), enzyme activity and volatile compounds of blueberry fruit were determined. Results showed that mechanical vibration resulted in the increase of ethylene production, respiratory rate, decay incidence and the decrease of firmness, enzyme activity, SSC, TAC, flavonoid content, TPC in blueberries comparing with the control. Moreover, mechanical vibration improved the relative content of alcohols and decreased the relative content of esters in comparison with the control group. In conclusion, the effect of transport vibration on blueberry quality was conspicuous. The quality of blueberry fruit gradually decreased with the extension of vibration time during the transportation, which seriously reduced storage life and commodity value of blueberries.

Automated summary

Mechanical vibration has a significant impact on the quality of blueberry fruit, leading to an increase in ethylene production, respiratory rate, decay incidence, and a decrease in firmness, enzyme activity, and various compound contents. Vibration also improves the relative content of alcohols in blueberries.