Effect of modified atmosphere packaging on shelf life extension of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris (L.)

Abstract

In this study, three types of films (Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), PD-961) were used with and without perforation for modified atmosphere packaging to extend the shelf life as well as maintain the physiological and biochemical property of French bean pods at ambient storage condition (25.7- 31.1 °C and 21-51% RH). The physiological parameters evaluated in this experiment were gas composition inside the bag, physiological loss in weight, surface color and firmness of pods. PD-961 (both perforated and non-perforated) had low PLW (< 1.5%) with compare to control (20.41%). PD-961 maintained the equilibrium between CO2 and O2 inside the package. l* value was minimum in the beans packed in non-perforated PE (48.42) . -a* values of beans were significantly lower in non-perforated PD-961 beans (-11.5) similarly b value was minimum in non-perforated PD-961 beans (25.16) means PD-961 plays a role to maximum retention of green color. PD-961 films had best effect on the firmness of pods throughout the storage. Due to physiological quality PD-961 films were more acceptable and it also retains the biochemical quality viz. protein content, total antioxidant capacity, total phenols and total chlorophyll content of beans.