Effect of modified atmosphere packaging on quality of minimally processed fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) microgreens

Abstract

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) microgreens is an underutilized vegetable with limited shelf life having good source of antioxidants, carotenoid as well as vitamins. The study deals with nutritional quality and optimization of a suitable passive modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) for improving the shelf life of fenugreek microgreens in its minimally processed form (MPFM) at 8oC Semipermeable plastic films viz., low density polyethylene, polypropylene, Cryovac PD 961® and stretchable PVC cling film with varying thickness were evaluated as packaging materials to obtain different MAP composition inside MPFM packages. Packaging of MPFM in 40 μm thick polypropylene film resulted in development of in-pack equilibrium MA with 10-14% oxygen and 5-8% carbon dioxide during storage. This in-pack MA maintained ‘fresh-like’ sensory properties, biochemical and nutritional quality in MPFM till 15 days of storage. Significant loss of B vitamins was recorded in all packages during low temperature storage. Packaging in 40 μm thick polypropylene film retained B vitamins significantly better than other semipermeable films. Low temperature storage in modified atmosphere conditions enhanced vitamin E content in MPFM. The outcome of the study will benefit the entrepreneurs and retailers for distant transport and storage of fenugreek microgreens in commercial open chillers maintained in supermarkets in their ready-to-cook form.