Measurement of Vaccinium corymbosum Firmness during Low Temperature Storage: Comparison of Different Methods
V. Chiabrando, G. Giacalone , C. Peano, L. Rolle, G. Zeppa
Book of Abstract. Information & technology for sustainable fruit & vegetable production, The 7th Fruit, Nut and Vegetable Production Engineering Symposium, 12-16 September 2005, Monpellier, France. Page 39
2005
บทคัดย่อ
Flesh firmness is one of the most important blueberry characteristics for fresh market consuption, as it relates to consumer appeal and to post-harvest decay of fruit. Berry firmness is also an important attribute because it is considered to be a measurement of its freshness. This attribute is related to both the stage of maturity and the variety itself. Berries lose their firmness by loss of water and/or by changes in their structure. In this study, firmness was measured with a rapid nondestructive instrument (Durofel®, CTIFL Copa, Technologic, France) and with a laboratory instrument (Texture Analyzer TaxT2i® Stable Micro System, UK), using a electrometer test. Samples of berries were collected weekly at different picking dates, then weighed and stored for 40 days under two different conditions: traditional (3°C, 85% R.H.), or innovative (adding ozone to the normal atmosphere). Statistical analysis of data showed a significant correlation between the two methods tested. The Durofef® offers an alternative and low cost measurement of blueberry firmness, but the result on the dial is are expressed as a unit of strength, but as a index having only a relative value. on the contrary, tests Will, Texture Analyzer gave a force deformation curve with international parameter of force max (N).