Postharvest transport type influences fruit physiological, biochemical and antioxidative attributes of two cultivars of pomegranate

Abstract

In developing countries, substantial losses occur during the fresh produce transit from orchard to consumer representing significant postharvest losses. This study was conducted to investigate the postharvest losses and fruit quality attributes dynamics of two pomegranate cultivars (Sandhora and Sawa) transported directly (Field Lab) and indirectly (Wholesaler→Retailer→lab). For this purpose, harvested pomegranate fruit of both cultivars were divided into two lots. One lot was transported directly and other lot indirectly. In the experiment, fruit of both cv were kept at ambient conditions (25 ± 2o C, 60-65% RH). The experimental design was completely randomize design (CRD) with factorial arrangement. Different parameters were studied during the study include physical parameter (fruit firmness) physiological parameter (weight loss, ethylene, respiration rate, colony forming unit), biochemical parameter [juice pH, TSS (Total Soluble Solids), TA (Titratable acidity), ascorbic acid] and antioxidatative parameters (total anthocyanin, total phenolics contents, activity of superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase enzyme). The data was analyzed by the application of standard statistical measures. Results of experiment revealed significant differences between transportation system and days at shelf. As far as the result of fruit subjected to direct transportation system showed better quality due to higher aril juice pH (4.2), TSS (16.9 oBrix), total antioxidant capacity (87.5 % inhibition) and phenolic contents (296.71 mg GAE 100g−1) as compared the fruit that was transported through indirect market transportation system. Maximum TSS (18 °Brix) were recorded in indirect transportation of cv “Sawa” at the day-5 of study as compared to others. The maximum ascorbic acid contents were recorded in direct transportation of both cultivars (35.37 mg/100g) as compared to the indirect. Pomegranate fruit transported through direct transportation system exhibited higher fruit quality and lesser losses in fruit quality than the fruit transported indirectly irrespective to days at shelf.