Shelf-life and quality evaluation of clementine following a combined treatment with γ-irradiation

In order to enhance the shelf-life of a late variety of Moroccan Citrus clementina (Nour), ionizing treatments were applied at 0.3 kGy, as well as washing (cold water) and waxing treatments. It has been found that, despite the irradiation treatment, the washing and waxing treatment do not improve the quality of C. clementina, but rather result in peel injury. Finally, sensory evaluation confirmed that irradiation had no detrimental effect on the quality of clementines. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier Ltd.