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Potential of controlled atmospheres for postharvest insect disinfestation of fruits and vegetables.

Author(s) : KE D., KADER A. A.

Type of article: Article

Summary

Insecticidal effects of very low O2 and/or very high CO2 atmospheres at various temperatures are reviewed. The time required for 100% mortality varies with insect species and various factors. Possible beneficial effects include reduction of respiration rate, inhibition of ethylene production, retardation of colour change and softening, maintenance of composition and nutritional value, reduction of some physiological disorders, and inhibition of decay. Tolerance of fruits and vegetables to 50-90% CO2 atmospheres is limited by CO2 injury. Off-flavour development limits commodity tolerance to O2 levels at or below 1%. Mathematical models have been developed for predicting fruit tolerance to insecticidal low O2 atmospheres. These controlled atmosphere treatments have a good potential for use as quarantine procedures for some insects in certain fruits and vegetables and merit further investigation.

Details

  • Original title: Potential of controlled atmospheres for postharvest insect disinfestation of fruits and vegetables.
  • Record ID : 1993-0935
  • Languages: English
  • Source: Postharvest News Inf. - vol. 3 - n. 2
  • Publication date: 1992/04
  • Document available for consultation in the library of the IIR headquarters only.

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