Modified Atmosphere Research Articles

Technological Features of Filler Wire Melting for Arc Welding and Surfacing with the Introduction of SF6 into Protective Gas Atmosphere

On the basis of the results of experimental studies the paper establishes important patterns of dependence of the frequency of short circuits of the arc gap and the coefficient of loss of electrode metal due to spatter from the voltage on the arc and the feed rate of the filler wire during welding and surfacing with the introduction of gaseous SF6 into the Ar + CO2 protective mixture. It is proposed to introduce fluorine-containing components of SF6 directly into the protective gas mixture of 82 % Ar + 18 % CO2 in quantities not exceeding 2 %. The technology makes it possible to reduce the amount of diffusion hydrogen in the deposited metal, which is an urgent task when welding high-strength steels and materials sensitive to hydrogen embrittlement. Previously, we resolved a number of issues related to the obstacle to increasing the concentration of S in the deposited metal, which made it possible to determine the most effective concentrations of SF6 in the protective gas environment, limited to 1.5 % by volume of the total composition (Ar + CO2) + SF6. At the same time, modification of the protective gas atmosphere with the halide compound SF6 has a significant effect on the melting characteristics of the electrode wire and temperature indicators in the arc combustion zone. This is due to the high ionization potential of fluorine as a product of the high-temperature dissociation reaction of SF6. The results obtained have made it possible to determine the most effective relationships between the values of the mode parameters, as well as to study the specifics of melting the filler wire in a protective atmosphere modified with SF6. Important regularities have been established that reveal the technological features of welding and surfacing with modification of the protective atmosphere with halide compounds.

Effect of the shifting from multi-layer systems towards recyclable mono-material packaging solutions on the shelf-life of portioned semi-hard cheese

Packaging with recyclable plastic films could be an interesting alternative solution to extend shelf-life of portioned cheese. Two multi-layer materials of different types of one polymer (MonoMAP1 and MonoMAP2) with different barrier properties (O2: 13 and 20 cm3(STP)/(m2 × 24 h), 0 % RH; CO2: 65 and 92 cm3(STP)/(m2 × 24 h), 0 % RH) and coupled with modified atmosphere (MAP) were considered. Their performances in affecting cheese stability were compared to those of conventional multi-layer solutions under-vacuum (MultiVAC) and MAP (MultiMAP). Microbiological and physicochemical quality indicators were considered for a shelf-life study. In MonoMAP2, the initial loss of carbon dioxide and concomitant permeation of oxygen into the pack caused an earlier proliferation of molds with values of 4.7 log cfu g−1, leading to its inapplicability. In the other packaged samples, the development of rancid volatile compounds resulted the more sensitive quality indicator to be used for shelf-life assessment, with a critical threshold perceived by panelists around 520 mg/kg. Cheese packaged in MonoMAP1 showed a shelf-life associated to rancidity development of about one third lower than that of MultiVAC and MultiMAP ones.

Enhancing the Quality of Ready‐to‐Eat Trout Burger Patties: Investigating the Combination of Modified Atmosphere Packaging and Microbial Transglutaminase Enzyme

ABSTRACTIn this study, rainbow trout patties (Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum, 1792) were treated under a modified atmosphere (MA) (60/40:CO2/N2) packed with microbial transglutaminase enzyme (MTGase) at varying concentrations (0.5% and 1%) and kept for a full day at 2°C ± 2°C. Denser and more complex intermolecular cross‐linking formations between peptides and gel network structures were observed in the first and last scanning electron microscope images of MTGase‐containing groups. MTGase increased the springiness, hardness, shear force, and work‐of‐shear parameters during the storage period in uncooked and cooked patties compared to the control group. The protein, energy, moisture, and amino acid contents were maintained in the MTGase‐containing groups, but using MTGase at higher concentrations was ineffective. Microbiological analyses have shown that MTGase is partially effective on microbial fauna, and the most significant inhibitory effect was determined on total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMAB). In all groups, the total amounts of saturated, monosaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids remained unchanged on both production and expiration days (p > 0.05). After mixing the burger patty additives into the ground meat, the amounts of sodium, calcium, potassium, and magnesium increased in all groups (p < 0.05); however, a decrease in calcium was observed in the MTGase‐containing groups (p < 0.05) compared to the control group. The higher proportion of the MTGase‐contained group did not exhibit significant differences compared to the lower proportion of the MTGase‐contained group, except for textural characteristics and the TMAB inhibition effect.

Alpha sensing, NIR to green light emission in Er3+ doped PbWO4 nanoparticles with modification of calcination atmosphere

In this study, various concentrations (0.5, 1, and 1.5 at%) of Er3+ PbWO4 nanoparticles (PWO: Er NPs) were prepared using a co-precipitation procedure, and the effect of the calcination atmosphere (air and argon) on the luminescence properties and scintillation responses were investigated. Different characterization analyses were carried out to study the structural and optical characteristics of prepared samples. We found evidence of the transformation of the PWO Scheelite structure into a non-centered group, which effectively influences the symmetry properties of the structure and subsequently its luminescence and sensing properties. Both Ar atmosphere and Er concentration contribute to the distortion of the scheelite structure and the symmetry breaking. However, with increasing dopant concentrations, the lattice becomes more homogeneously distorted, causing the structure to re-symmetrize and, as a result, the intensity of luminescence increases, particularly magnetic dipolar (MD) transitions that correspond to NIR emission. The ideal conditions are given when the impurity percentage reaches 1.5 at%, in the Ar atmosphere. Our PWO: Er (1.5 at%-Ar) sample had a maximum count rate of 1388 and 2082 and detection efficiency of 0.216 and 0.170 cps/Bq under 241Am sources with 0.22 and 0.26 μc activities, respectively. By exceeding the efficiency of the commercial ZnS(Ag), it showed promising potential for practical applications in future optoelectronic domains.

Using Hurdle Technology: Nisin in Combination with Vacuum or Modified Atmosphere Packaging Increases the Surimi Shelf Life

Using Hurdle Technology: Nisin in Combination with Vacuum or Modified Atmosphere Packaging Increases the Surimi Shelf Life

Post-Harvest Alternatives in Banana Cultivation

Banana, also known as plátano in some places, is a fruit consumed and appreciated around the world. Its scientific name is Musa paradisiaca, belonging to the Musaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is currently grown in 130 countries in tropical and subtropical regions. This fruit is harvested throughout the year; 75% is generated mainly in India, Ecuador, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, and China. Post-harvest technology enables efficient processing, storage, transportation, and distribution while preserving the quality and safety of the fruit to reduce economic losses. Currently, challenges are being investigated for post-harvest treatments to minimize the environmental impact, reduce polluting emissions, and the requirement for less energy consumption. The most-used options for bananas are de-greening, atmospheric modification, coatings, and frigoconservation, which are important for achieving safe, healthy, and high-quality food in the XXI century. This review details the post-harvest mechanical damage, handling of environmental parameters (temperature and relative humidity), control of gases involved in storage and transport, wax treatment, coatings, the use of antifungal compounds, and packaging necessary for the export of the fruit.

IMPACT OF ENRICHED CO2 IN MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING ON THE PRESERVATION OF “PALMARITAS” STRAWBERRIES AND THE EXTENSION OF THEIR SHELF LIFE

This study evaluated the effect of modified atmospheres (MAPs) with low oxygen levels (2.5%) and high carbon dioxide levels (from 5 to 20%) on strawberries. During 12 days of storage at 4°C, various quality and chemical content parameters were evaluated. These including decay, color, weight loss, firmness, total soluble solids, total polyphenols, anthocyanins, and flavonoids, as well as antioxidant capacity and individual phenolic compounds (quercetin, caffeic acid, gallic acid, (-) epicatechin, and p-coumaric acid). Results showed that high CO2 levels had a positive impact on strawberry preservation: weight loss was reduced, anthocyanin content increased, decay and softening were significantly reduced, and vitamin C content was maintained. At the same time, these high concentrations of CO2 did not affect sugar content, color, antioxidant capacity, total phenolic compounds, or total flavonoid compounds of strawberries. A storage time of 12 days at 4°C, under MAP with an initial gas condition of 2.5% O2 + 15% CO2 + 82.5% N2 or 2.5% O2 + 20% CO2 + 77.5% N2, was found to be ideal for preserving the quality of fresh strawberries.

Influence of Different Packaging Materials on the Composition of the Headspace of Rennet Cheeses under Different Modified Atmosphere Conditions.

The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of different packaging materials on the composition of the headspace (CO2 and O2) of rennet cheeses packed in unit packaging under different modified atmosphere (MAP) conditions during a storage period of 90 days at 2 °C and 8 °C. The packaging materials comprised different combinations of BOPP-biaxially oriented polypropylene; PET-polyester; PE-polyethylene; PP-polypropylene; EVOH-ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer; PET-polyethylene terephthalate; and PA-polyamide. As the properties of the packaging material (foil) affect the gas conditions inside the packaging, it is important to study whether the modifications, i.e., properties and thickness, of the foils will result in significant differences in the composition of the headspace of packed cheeses. The CO2 content in the headspace of Gouda cheese packages ranged from 35% to 45%, while for Maasdamer and Sielski Klasyczny cheese, it varied between 55% and 65%. Throughout the storage period, the O2 content in the headspace of cheeses packaged in tested foils (1-5) did not exceed 0.5%. The type of foil used did not influence the modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) conditions.

Functional properties of food packaging solutions alternative to conventional multilayer systems

AbstractThis study aimed to investigate the most important functional properties of multilayer and alternative packaging with improved sustainability specifically used for modified atmosphere (MAP) and chilled food products. A multilayer material with a thickness reduction, mono-PET, paper/PE-EVOH-PE, and a biopolymer for trays, together with a SiOx-coated PET, and a cellulose/PLA-based for lids were analyzed for their optical, tensile, and gas-vapor barrier properties, which were compared to those of conventional trays/lids (PET-EVOH-PE multilayer structures). All the alternative solutions showed good UV-light screening ability, together with high transparency in the visible range, and tensile properties greater than those displayed by conventional configurations. Lid alternative materials exhibited a significantly higher performance in terms of oxygen and water vapor barrier properties as compared to that displayed by conventional counterparts. The tray alternative solutions performed better than the conventional ones against CO2 and O2 permeation, with values lower than the detection limit of the instrument (0.01 cm3 m− 2 day− 1 and 0.25 cm3 m− 2 day− 1 for O2 and CO2, respectively). This study demonstrated the high potential of alternative packaging in replacing the current materials intended for storing highly perishable foods stored under MAP and cold storage.

Effects of modified atmospheres, temperature and humidity on the growth and development of Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) in feihe infant milk powder

Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) is a common stored product pest that damages various stored goods across the global. To identify the effects of modified atmospheres (MA), humidity and temperature on the growth and development of T. castaneum in Feihe infant milk powder, the modified atmospheres were set at 75% nitrogen (N2) and 25% carbon dioxide (CO2), with air as the control. Two different temperatures and humidities were set at 30 °C, RH 80% and 25 °C, RH 40%. The results revealed that T. castaneum larvae exposed to the warm and moist southern conditions (30 °C, RH 80%) feeding on flour and yeast diet had a significantly shorter developmental duration. The larval weights were significantly increased in T. castaneum feeding flour and yeast diet compared with those of T. castaneum feeding milk powder under high temperature. The elevated temperature significantly increased the mortality of larvae. However, 4.4% of the survival larvae successfully grow into adults at the cool and dry northern conditions (25 °C, RH 40%). The mortality rate of eggs was 100% when eggs were sealed and treated by MA under warm and moist temperature and humidity for 96 h, and the mortality rate of 5th instar larvae increased to 100% on 7th day. Moreover, the activities of CAT and GST were decreased in all stages of T. castaneum feeding on infant milk under temperature and humidity stress. Additionally, 5th instar larvae fed with infant milk powder showed significantly fluctuated activity of POD, SOD and P450 in all stages of T. castaneum. However, T. castaneum is more susceptible to milk powder sealing with air under warm and moist temperature and humidity. The present investigation demonstrated that temperature treatment and modified atmospheres effectively prevented growth and development of T. castaneum in milk powder. These results also contribute to suitable strategies for storage of milk power.

Enhancing the Quality of Ripened ‘Irwin’ Mangoes and the Shelf Life through Chitosan Edible Coating and Modified Atmosphere Packaging

Enhancing the Quality of Ripened ‘Irwin’ Mangoes and the Shelf Life through Chitosan Edible Coating and Modified Atmosphere Packaging

Optimal Dynamic Regimes for CO Oxidation Discovered by Reinforcement Learning.

Metal nanoparticles are widely used as heterogeneous catalysts to activate adsorbed molecules and reduce the energy barrier of the reaction. Reaction product yield depends on the interplay between elementary processes: adsorption, activation, desorption, and reaction. These processes, in turn, depend on the inlet gas composition, temperature, and pressure. At a steady state, the active surface sites may be inaccessible due to adsorbed reagents. Periodic regime may thus improve the yield, but the appropriate period and waveform are not known in advance. Dynamic control should account for surface and atmospheric modifications and adjust reaction parameters according to the current state of the system and its history. In this work, we applied a reinforcement learning algorithm to control CO oxidation on a palladium catalyst. The policy gradient algorithm was trained in the theoretical environment, parametrized from experimental data. The algorithm learned to maximize the CO2 formation rate based on CO and O2 partial pressures for several successive time steps. Within a unified approach, we found optimal stationary, periodic, and nonperiodic regimes for different problem formulations and gained insight into why the dynamic regime can be preferential. In general, this work contributes to the task of popularizing the reinforcement learning approach in the field of catalytic science.

Investigation of antioxidant edible coating and modified atmosphere packaging for enhancing storability of hazelnut kernels

This study investigated the effects of antioxidant edible coating and modified atmosphere packaging for improving storability of dried hazelnut kernels by delaying lipid oxidation and color degradation. Hazelnut kernels were coated with different coating matrix (methylcellulose and chitosan) that contain different antioxidant substances (DL-α-tocopherol acetate, cinnamon essential oil, rosemary essential oil and hazelnut oil) and subjected to an accelerated storage condition at 35 °C for 270 days. Hazelnut kernels were also packed under modified atmosphere (MAP) with 100 % N2 in mylar bags and stored at 35 °C for 180 days. Lipid oxidation (free fatty acids, K232 and K270, peroxide values) and color (browning index) were measured for investigating quality changes during the storage. The free fatty acids of kernels from two packaging experiments remained stable during storage. K232 value of MAP kernels was significantly lower (2.20) than that of control (2.90) at the end of the storage, showing delayed production of conjugated dienes. The chitosan based edible coating with encapsulated cinnamon essential oil and oleic acid (CH/ECO/OA) resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) lower PV values (0.53 meq/kg oil), and all the coated samples had the positive effect on reducing browning index with 12–25 compared with control. K270 (0.04–0.18) remained relatively low throughout the long-term storage. As a result, modified atmosphere packaging performed better than edible coatings. This study demonstrated the importance of implicating proper postharvest technology for reducing lipid oxidation and quality deteriorations of hazelnut kernels during prolonged storage.

Investigation of the control of Sitophilus granarius in stored grain using vacuum packaging and the creation of an anaerobic atmospheric environment

The efficacy of vacuum and oxygen absorption-based treatments for controlling Sitophilus granarius L. damage in wheat grains was compared under laboratory conditions. The efficacy of the treatments was evaluated at different temperature ranges (−5, 26, 42 °C) and exposure times (0.5, 1, 3, 6, 24, 48, 72 h). Treatment-survived adult progeny were measured on day 45. Our studies demonstrated that the efficacy of the controlled atmosphere methods (CAs) we tested varied significantly as a function of time. While the mortality curve induced by the different temperature-controlled low-pressure vacuum packaging treatments is logarithmic, the mortality trend induced by the absorber's low oxygen levels follows an exponential slope. The hypoxia induced by low oxygen levels has a much longer duration of action. We have shown that vacuum packaging at lower and higher pessimum temperature ranges other than the thermal optimum of the insect induced significant mortality of S. granarius. The method was particularly effective when vacuum-packed items were kept at a higher pessimum temperature range. Our results confirm that vacuum packaging based on atmospheric modification, especially at elevated temperatures, can be a sustainable solution for pest control of small volume, valuable seed samples.

Application of On-Pack pH Indicators to Monitor Freshness of Modified Atmospheric Packaged Raw Beef

Abstract Three on-pack visual indicators for the real-time monitoring of raw beef steaks in a modified atmospheric packaging (MAP) environment were developed. The indicators were prepared by spray deposition of a nanocellulose (NC) suspension (1.5 wt. %) with the desired concentration of the pH-sensitive indicators, either red cabbage (RC) extract, black carrot (BC) extract, or chlorophenol red (CPR). The responsiveness of the colorimetric pH indicators, assessed visually and by CIE-Lab quantitative analysis, to the freshness of raw beef steaks stored under MAP conditions at 4 °C or 20 °C, was analysed over 7 days. All indicators gave a colour change for beef steak stored at 4 °C for 7 days that was noticeable with the naked eye and had a ΔE value &amp;gt;12. The sensitivity of the RC pH indicator was superior to the BC and CPR pH indicators. A study linking total microbial count (aerobic + Escherichia coli + coliform) and the quantitative colorimetric response of the indicators (ΔE) revealed a strong linear correlation. Thus, it was concluded that the developed colorimetric pH indicators could be used to monitor the freshness of raw beef and as an alternative to the best-before date commonly used in pre-packaged meat.

Controlled Atmosphere Storage and Sorbitol Dipping Minimize Chilling Injuries in ‘Palmer’ Mangoes

Our previous studies have shown that ‘Palmer’ mangoes immersed in solutions containing 2.5% sorbitol and stored under a controlled atmosphere (CA) at 8 °C for 30 days had fewer symptoms of a chilling injury. However, there is no information regarding the effectiveness of sorbitol treatment in other atmospheres and/or in combination with lower temperatures. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the impact of dipping ‘Palmer’ mangoes in 0.1% and 2.5% (w/v) sorbitol solutions and storing the fruit under a CA without atmosphere modification (21 kPa O2 + 0.03 kPa CO2) at 8 °C/95% relative humidity (RH) or with 5 kPa O2 + 5 kPa CO2 at 4 °C/95% RH for 28 days. The fruits were evaluated periodically for chilling injuries, quality, and oxidative metabolism. A chilling injury (CI) was correlated with increased fresh weight loss (FWL) and changes in the color of the epicarp (Lpeel, h°peel, and Cpeel) and mesocarp (L*pulp). Lipid peroxidation (LPpulp and LPpeel) and the hydrogen peroxide content (H2O2peel and H2O2pulp) were associated with the development of a CI, particularly after being transferred to ambient. The treatment with 2.5% sorbitol was more effective in minimizing the chilling injury symptoms and did not compromise the fruit quality, especially when it was stored at 4 °C in association with a CA containing 5 kPa O2 + 5 kPa CO2. This treatment reduced lipid peroxidation and increased the activities of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) enzymes in the epicarp and mesocarp, providing greater cold tolerance. The use of 2.5% sorbitol has been identified as the most efficacious approach for mitigating the adverse impacts of chilling injuries, preserving the fruit quality, and enhancing oxidative metabolism, even at lower temperatures. Thus, this treatment represents a viable alternative for managing chilling injuries in mangoes.

Evaluation of Postharvest Behaviour of Bitter Gourd as Influenced by Gamma Irradiation and Modified Atmosphere Packaging

An experiment was conducted at the Postharvest Laboratory of Horticulture Division, Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture during November to December 2022to examine the effects of different doses of gamma irradiation and Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on shelf life and quality of bitter gourd at ambient condition. The experiment comprised ten postharvest treatment viz., T0 =Control (untreated, unwrapped and non-irradiated); T1 =Gourds wrapped in Polypropylene (PP) bag; T2 =Gourds treated with 3% CaCl2; T3 = Irradiated at1000 Gy, T4= Irradiated at2000 Gy, T5 =3% CaCl2+ PP bag, T6 = 1000 Gy+ PP bag, T7 = 2000 Gy+ PP bag, T8 =3% CaCl2, + 1000 Gy+ PP bag and T9 = 3% CaCl2 + 2000 Gy+ PP bag. The single-factor experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with three replications. Parameters investigated were fruit colour, shrinkage, moisture content, dry matter content, weight loss, disease incidence (DI), disease severity (DS) and shelf life. The minimum weight loss (3.49%), shrinkage (0.00%), DI (11.11%),DS (6.67%) and longest shelf life (10 days) were found in bitter gourds treated with T8 treatment, whereas the maximum weight loss (52.31%), shrinkage (3.89%), DI (77.78%), DS (76.67%) and shortest shelf life (4 days) were T0 treatment at 8 days after storage. The findings would have great impact in reducing enormous postharvest loss of bitter gourd and maintain their quality during postharvest handling and marketing under ambient condition. Bangladesh J. Nuclear Agric, 37(2): 57-68, 2023

Development and Metabolomic Profiles of Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae) Larvae Exposed to Phytosanitary Irradiation Dose in Hypoxic Environment Using DI-SPME-GC/MS.

X-ray irradiation and modified atmospheres (MAs) provide eco-friendly, chemical-free methods for pest management. Although a low-oxygen atmospheric treatment improves the performance of some irradiated insects, its influence on the irradiation of quarantine insects and its impacts on pest control efficacy have yet to be investigated. Based on bioassay results, this study employed direct immersion solid-phase microextraction (DI-SPME) combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to determine metabolic profiles of late third-instar B. dorsalis larvae under normoxia (CON, Air), hypoxia (95% N2 + 5% O2, HY), super-hypoxia (99.5% N2 + 0.5% O2, Sup-HY), irradiation-alone (116 Gy, IR-alone), hypoxia + irradiation (HY + IR) and super-hypoxia + irradiation (Sup-HY + IR). Our findings reveal that, compared to the IR-alone group, the IR treatment under HY and Sup-HY (HY + IR and Sup-HY + IR) increases the larval pupation of B. dorsalis, and weakens the delaying effect of IR on the larval developmental stage. However, these 3 groups further hinder adult emergence under the phytosanitary IR dose of 116 Gy. Moreover, all IR-treated groups, including IR-alone, HY + IR, and Sup-HY + IR, lead to insect death as a coarctate larvae or pupae. Pathway analysis identified changed metabolic pathways across treatment groups. Specifically, changes in lipid metabolism-related pathways were observed: 3 in HY vs. CON, 2 in Sup-HY vs. CON, and 5 each in IR-alone vs. CON, HY + IR vs. CON, and Sup-HY + IR vs. CON. The treatments of IR-alone, HY + IR, and Sup-HY + IR induce comparable modifications in metabolic pathways. However, in the HY + IR, and Sup-HY + IR groups, the third-instar larvae of B. dorsalis demonstrate significantly fewer changes. Our research suggests that a low-oxygen environment (HY and Sup-HY) might enhance the radiation tolerance in B. dorsalis larvae by stabilizing lipid metabolism pathways at biologically feasible levels. Additionally, our findings indicate that the current phytosanitary IR dose contributes to the effective management of B. dorsalis, without being influenced by radioprotective effects. These results hold significant importance for understanding the biological effects of radiation on B. dorsalis and for developing IR-specific regulatory guidelines under MA environments.

Hygienic effect of modified atmosphere film packaging on ginseng sprout for microbial safety

This study evaluates the microbial safety of ginseng sprouts packaged in moss and a modified atmosphere (MA) film within Styrofoam boxes. Ginseng sprout samples were stored at 4°C for seven days, and the total fungi and aerobic bacteria counts, relative humidity, and moisture content were measured at 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 days. During the storage period, both packaging treatments caused an increase in the total fungi and aerobic bacteria counts. However, by the seventh day, the ginseng sprouts packaged in the MA film demonstrated significantly lower counts of total fungi (3.03 log CFU/g) and aerobic bacteria (7.32 log CFU/g) than those in moss (3.66 and 7.63 log CFU/g, respectively). Moss packaging alone resulted in the total fungi count reaching up to 3.36 log CFU/g, with the aerobic bacteria count consistently exceeding 7 log CFU/g, highlighting the importance of hygienic management. Moreover, no significant differences were observed in the moisture content and relative humidity between the MA-film- and moss-packaged groups throughout storage. These findings indicate that the functional MA film is a more hygienic packaging solution for ginseng sprouts than moss.

Effects of Genotype and Modified Atmosphere Packaging on the Quality of Fresh-Cut Melons.

Marketing melons (Cucumis melo) as convenient fresh-cut products is popular nowadays. However, damage inflicted by fresh-cut processing results in fast quality degradation and food safety risks. The life of fresh-cut produce can be extended by a modified atmosphere (MA), either generated in a package by tissue respiration (a passive MA) or injected by gas flushing (an active MA). This work investigated the effect of passive and active MA formed in packages of different perforation levels on the quality of fresh-cut melons of two genetic groups: C. melo var. cantalupensis, characterized by climacteric fruit behavior, and non-climacteric C. melo inodorus. The best product preservation was achieved in passive MA packages: non-perforated for inodorus melons and micro-perforated for cantalupensis ones. The optimal packages allowed for the preservation of both genotypes for 14 days at 6-8 °C. The major factors limiting the shelf life of fresh-cut melons were microbial spoilage, translucency disorder and hypoxic fermentation associated with cantalupensis melons with enhanced ethyl acetate accumulation. Inodorus melons were found to be preferable for fresh-cut processing since they were less prone to fermented off-flavor development.