Effect of Diffusion Channel Storage on Some Physical Properties of Button Mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) and Shelf-Life Extension

Abstract

Diffusion channel storage system is a new concept in modified atmosphere storage. It was assessed for storing button mushrooms that are highly perishable due to their high moisture content and delicate nature. In the present study, polyethylene teraphthalate (PET) jars were used as modified atmosphere storage chambers. The jars were provided with diffusion channels of varying lengths and inner diameter. Experiments were conducted to assess the suitability of the diffusion channel storage under ambient conditions for evaluating the shelf-life and physical changes associated in the stored button mushroom. During the storage period, various physical quality parameters namely physiological weight loss, veil opening, water activity, colour value (L, a*, b*) and firmness were recorded at timely intervals. It was observed that PET jars with diffusion channels of 15 cm length and 3 mm diameter were found to be a promising storage method with a minimum physiological weight loss of 4.60 %, water activity value of 0.951 and firmness value of 105.97 N as compared to all other treatments. Further, there was no veil opening found in this treatment. Using this methodology, it was demonstrated that button mushrooms could be effectively stored for about 8 days under ambient conditions.