The effects of modified atmospheres on prickly pear (Opuntia albicarpa) stored at different temperatures

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on fresh prickly pear (Opuntia albicarpa). Unpacked prickly pears (control) and packaged under passive (20.3 +/- 0.1% O-2 and 0.03 +/- 0.0% CO2) and active (6.25 +/- 0.1% O-2 and 3.65 +/- 0.1% CO2) atmospheres were stored at three temperatures (4, 10, and 27 degrees C). Fruit were evaluated for weight loss, color, firmness, bioactive compounds, microbial load, and sensory characteristics every 10d for 40d. Prickly pears, stored under modified atmospheres at 4 and 10 degrees C. Experienced a delayed weight loss by 1.0% and a total color change (SE) of 13.7 was observed. In general, the firmness of prickly pears stored under modified atmospheres was lower than for unpacked fruit. During storage, phenolic compounds increased in fruit under all storage conditions. Microbial growth increased in fruit packaged in modified atmosphere; however, at low temperatures the microbial growth decreased. Sensory evaluation judges detected changes in color and softening of fruit during storage. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.