Effectiveness of different packaging films and trays on mushrooms ( Agaricus bisporus ) subjected to simulated transportation conditions at different vibration frequencies

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the different vibration frequencies (4, 8, 12, and 16 Hz) and packaging trays and films (Polypropylene trays + microperforated films (MP) and Polystyrene foam trays + polyvinyl chloride stretch films (PVC)) effects on mushroom quality. The quality of the mushrooms in MP was reduced with the increment in the frequency, whereas the effect of the frequency was only detrimental in the mushrooms packaged with PVC at 16 Hz. Oxygen concentration reached the equilibrium state at the level of 15% in PVC and 9% in MP groups. The whiteness index of mushrooms in MP was between 25 and 40, whereas it was around 20–30 in PVC films. However, changes in electrolyte leakage, pH, and hardness were minimal in the mushrooms packaged with PVC. As a result, PVC stretch films reduced the effect of transport frequencies, however, the optimal gas concentrations for mushrooms were only achieved using MP films. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: In this study, effects of different packaging films, and trays were studied on mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) which were subjected to simulated transportation conditions at different vibration frequencies. Foam trays with PVC films reduced the effect of transportation damage. Transportation damage in MP packages observed to be increased with the rise in the frequency. MP films helped to achieve the desired gas composition inside the packages.