Influence of 1-MCP and modified atmosphere packaging in the quality and preservation of fresh basil

A study was conducted to assess the individual and combined effect of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and modified atmospheres packaging (MAP) in preserving basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) leaves. Fresh samples were stored at 11 degrees C and 85% RH, by packing them in sealed LDPE bags and in open macro-perforated LDPE bags with and without previous exposition to 1-MCP. Preliminary evaluations were performed to define a suitable 1-MCP dose in solution and exposure time being these, 0.3 cm(3) m(-3) and 24 h, respectively, and to preconfigure the MAP system with satisfactory gas levels, obtaining steady concentrations inside the packaging of ca. 10.5% of O-2 and 4.2% of CO2. The combined treatment of MAP and 1-MCP increased the storage life of the basil leaves up to 18 days, compared to 9 days in the control samples (stored at 11 degrees C in open bags without 1-MCP exposure), delaying changes in the evaluated quality properties.