The influence of pulsed light exposure mode on quality and bioactive compounds of fresh-cut mangoes.

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of pulsed light (PL) on the respiratory rate, quality (firmness, color and soluble solid content), bioactive compounds (ascorbate and carotenoid) and total antioxidant activity of fresh-cut "Tommy Atkins" mangoes. Fresh-cut mangoes were subjected to PL treatments: control (0P), 1 pulse (1P; 0.7Jcm-2), 4 successive pulses (4P; 2.80Jcm-2) and 1 pulse per day for 4days (1P4D; 2.80Jcm-2) before storage for 7days at 6°C. The 1P and the 4P treatments reduced fresh mass loss during storage, while 4P-treated samples also showed a slower decline of yellow color, as shown by parameter b and overall better visual appearance. After 7days of storage, total ascorbate content was 40% higher in the 1P4D treatment than in control, whereas total carotenoid content (0.894mgg-1 FM) and total antioxidant activity (144μmol trolox 100g-1 FM) were the highest in the 4P-treated samples. Results suggest that PL mode of application is more important than the fluence or final dose received by fresh-cut mangoes; moreover, 4P is an effective method to preserve, or even improve quality of fresh-cut mangoes.