A combined NMR and microstructural study of the effect of high-pressure processing on strawberries

A combination of nuclear magnetic resonance water proton relaxometry and optical microscopy is used to investigate the effects of high pressure on parenchyma tissue of fresh strawberries (Elsanta variety). Although a low pressure of just 35 MPa induces no visible tissue damage, there are subtle changes in the water relaxation behavior suggesting subcellular water redistribution. Higher pressures of 100 MPa are shown to rupture membranes and cause major water redistribution. Cell wall damage is apparent at pressures of 300 MPa.