Fruit quality of ‘Salustiana’ seedless oranges during cold storage: effect of carnauba-based wax and rootstocks

Abstract

Consumer preference for a healthier lifestyle has promoted the consumption of fresh citrus. To ensure its supply throughout the year, the use of different rootstocks for citrus cultivation associated with adequate postharvest techniques of fruit can be practical. This study aimed to evaluate methods to extend shelf life and to reduce postharvest losses of fruit from ‘Salustiana’ orange trees [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] grafted on five rootstocks: ‘Rangpur’ lime, ‘Cleopatra’ mandarin, ‘Sunki’ mandarin, ‘Swingle’ citrumelo, and ‘C-13’ citrange. Mature fruit were harvested from each scion:rootstock combination and divided into two experiments: coated with carnauba wax and non-coating. Then, fruit were stored in a cold chamber at 4 ± 1 °C and 90% RH for 0, 20, 40 and 60 days. At harvest, fruit were characterized according to their physical parameters and had their weight loss, color, chemical, and sensory attributes monitored at each period of cold storage. Wax coating treatment associated with cold storage were efficient to prevent weight loss in ‘Salustiana’ orange up to 40 days. Color attributes decreased during storage, for both non-coating and wax coating fruit causing reduction of lightness. Wax coating treatment ensured better sugar:acidity balance in ‘Salustiana’ orange fruit, preserving their chemical-quality up to 60 days. Fruit from ‘C-13’ citrange and ‘Cleopatra’ mandarin treatments were more tasteful according to the sensory profile while ‘Swingle’ citrumelo exhibited better overall appearance. Wax coating treatment and cold storage can prolong ‘Salustiana’ orange shelf life up to 40 days, by reducing weight loss and preserving their chemical and sensorial profile.