PVC Packaging Research Articles

Zigbee-Based Wireless Sensor Network of MEMS Accelerometers for Pavement Monitoring

In this paper, we propose a wireless sensor network for pavement health monitoring exploiting the Zigbee technology. Accelerometers are adopted to measure local accelerations linked to pavement vibrations, which are then converted into displacements by a signal processing algorithm. Each device consists of an on-board unit buried in the roadway and a roadside unit. The on-board unit comprises a microcontroller, an accelerometer and a Zigbee module that transfers acceleration data wirelessly to the roadside unit. The roadside unit consists of a Raspberry Pi, a Zigbee module and a USB Zigbee adapter. Laboratory tests were conducted using a vibration table and with three different accelerometers, to assess the system capability. A typical displacement signal from a five-axle truck was applied to the vibration table with two different displacement peaks, allowing for two different vehicle speeds. The prototyped system was then encapsulated in PVC packaging, deployed and tested in a real-life road situation with a fatigue carousel featuring rotating truck axles. The laboratory and on-road measurements show that displacements can be estimated with an accuracy equivalent to that of a reference sensor.

Postharvest conservation of coquinho-azedo fruits under modified atmosphere

Coquinho-azedo (Butia capitata) fruits are highly valued for their rich content of fiber, minerals, vitamin C, and pro-vitamin A carotenoids. They are consumed in their natural state and used in various products, offering an alternative income source for rural communities. This study aimed to assess the postharvest characteristics of coquinho-azedo fruits stored under different modified atmosphere conditions. The fruits were stored at 13°C using PVC, PP, PET, and a Control group without packaging. Over 17 days, the fruits' physicochemical characteristics were evaluated. Packaging significantly improved senescence scores and reduced the loss of fresh mass, soluble solids, vitamin C, and firmness compared to the Control group. PVC packaging showed superior color and firmness performance, while PP packaging maintained consistent fruit color. PET packaging had the highest levels of soluble solids, vitamin C, and titratable acidity. Utilizing modified atmosphere packaging, particularly PVC, effectively preserved the quality of coquinho-azedo fruits during postharvest storage. These findings contribute to enhancing shelf life and marketability, benefiting both producers and consumers.

Brazil plum fruit (Spondias tuberosa) stored under refrigeration with different types of packaging

The objective of this work was to evaluate the use of packaging to maintain quality and extending the postharvest life of umbu tree fruits in different storage periods, stored at 14 ° C and 90% UR. The experimental design used was completely randomized, in a 4 x 4 factorial scheme, with four evaluation periods (0, 4, 8 and 12 days after storage) and four packaging systems (PET, PET with holes, PVC and LDPE), with four replicates and four fruits per experimental unit. The physical and chemical characteristics were evaluated, such as, objective color of the peel, firmness of the intact fruit, soluble solids, titratable acidity, pH and loss of fresh mass. The results were submitted to analysis of variance and regression, using the SISVAR software program. The characteristics of the quantitative factor (types of packaging) were compared by the Tukey’s test at 5% probability, while for those of the qualitative factor (storage period), the adjustment was made to the regression model. There was a significant interaction between packaging and storage periods only for loss of mass. The luminosity characteristic was significant only for the type of packaging. For the other variables such as chroma, HUE angle, firmness, titratable acidity and pH, there was no significant interaction between the factors tested, having significance only for storage period. For soluble solids, there was no significance for packaging and storage period. The PVC and PET packaging were effective in delaying the loss of mass, and withering of the fruits up to 12 days, which kept under refrigeration at 14°C. It was verified that along the storage time, physical and chemical changes occur in the umbu tree fruits.

Influence of different packaging on the storage of milk candy in tablets

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of different packaging on the storage of milk candy in tablets by means of moisture, ash, lipid, protein, colour and texture profile analysis. The were used: Expanded polystyrene wrapped with polyvinyl chloride film (PVC), polypropylene (PP) and low-density polyethylene (PEBD) bags. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomised design, and the evaluations were carried out at 0, 45, 90, 135 and 180 days. All treatments presented darkening of the milk candy; however, those candies packaged in PVC presented a light and yellow colour (L = 39.84, b* = 20.06), while those in PEBD presented a dark colour (L = 36.75). According to the conditions studied, PVC packaging is not recommended for the storage of milk candy in tablets due to the intense changes in the physical-chemical characteristics, texture and colour. In contrast, PVC, PP and PEBD packages are efficient materials for maintaining the initial properties of this type of candy.

Qualidade pós-colheita de frutos do umbuzeiro (Spondias tuberosa Arruda) armazenados sob atmosfera modificada

O umbu é nativo do semiárido brasileiro. Ele participa como base alimentar e para as populações rurais da região Nordeste, sua exploração umbu é feita de forma extrativista, constituindo uma importante fonte de renda complementar e de mão-de-obra familiar para as comunidades do Semiárido Brasileiro. Com base nos problemas provenientes da rápida maturação e das elevadas perdas, objetivou-se avaliar a qualidade pós-colheita de frutos do umbuzeiro armazenados sob atmosfera modificada e ambiente natural em diferentes temperaturas. Utilizou-se delineamento inteiramente casualisado, com 6 tratamentos (uso ou não do filme PVC e quatro diferentes temperaturas), com 5 repetições e 4 períodos de análise. A análise estatística dos resultados foi feita através do programa SISVAR. Concluiu-se que a embalagem de PVC mostrou-se eficiente na manutenção da qualidade de frutos de umbu, preservando por mais tempo a massa dos frutos armazenados, esse efeito é intensificado quando os frutos são armazenados em temperaturas de -5ºC e 12ºC.

The True Revolution of 1968: Mineral Water Trade and the Early Proliferation of Plastic, 1960s–1970s

This article examines the 1968 decision by the French mineral water company Vittel to use PVC packaging for its main product. This was the first time this type of packaging had been used for a mainstream consumer product. By examining the causes, manifestations, and consequences of this business decision, it aims to show how this model has spread and contributed to the creation of an environmentally damaging waste regime by abandoning deposit systems. The article also seeks to show, through this case, the importance of identifying social and institutional contexts to understand the trajectory of consumer products.

Qualidade pós-colheita de tubérculos de batata ‘Ágata’ embalados armazenados em diferentes condições

The adequate storage of raw materials is fundamental to obtain a quality final product. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different plastic packages on the maintenance of post-harvest quality of ‘Agata’ potato tubers stored under refrigeration and room temperature. Two experiments were conducted, both with a completely randomized design, arranged in a 3 x 4 factorial scheme (three types of packages – unpacked, with polyvinyl chloride film – PVC (21 cm x 40 cm and 12 μm thick) and with plastic bag (30 cm x 40 cm and 30 μm thick) and four evaluation times), with three replicates of one tuber each. In one experiment the samples were maintained under ambient conditions (25 ± 2°C and 60% ± 5% RH), with evaluations performed at 0, 7, 14 and 21 days, and another under refrigeration (8 ± 2ºC 75% ± 2% RH) and 0, 25, 50 and 75 days. The evaluated characteristics were: firmness, pH, soluble solids, total titratable acidity, vitamin C and the appearance of shoots. Tubers can only be stored under ambient conditions for seven days, and during this period the PVC packaging is the most suitable for storage. Tuber firmness was reduced and the vitamin C content of the last evaluation was higher than the initial content in both storage conditions. The refrigerated storage extended the shelf life of tubers for up to 50 days, period during which the PVC and plastic bags did not influence the conservation of the ‘Agata’ potato tubers.

The Effect of Modified Atmospheric Packaging on Beef Color Sensory Characteristics of Different Muscle pH Categories

ObjectivesAny deviation from the bright-red color of beef can lead to discounted price or consumer rejection. Fresh beef lean color is influenced by pH. Various packaging techniques have been developed to enhance the lean color of beef steaks. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of modified atmospheric packaging on three different beef muscle pH categories.Materials and MethodsThe three categories evaluated for this study were: Normal (pH = 5.57 ± 0.1; N-pH), Moderately high (pH = 5.70 ± 0.09; M-pH), and High (pH = 6.39 ± 0.03; H-pH). The pH was taken on the carcass, at the 12th and 13th rib interface within 72 h of harvest at a commercial beef processing plant. Strip loins were fabricated from each carcass (n = 12) and sent to Oklahoma State University for further analysis. Strip loins were then cut into 2.54 cm steaks and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 packaging treatments: polyvinyl chloride overwrap (PVC), carbon monoxide modified atmosphere packaging (CO-MAP; 0.4% CO, 69.6% N, and 30% CO2) and high-oxygen modified atmospheric packaging (HiOx-MAP; 80% O2, and 20% CO2). Visual color measurements for muscle color (MC; (1 = extremely bright cherry-red and 7 = extremely dark red), and surface discoloration (SD; 1 = no discoloration [0%] and 7 = extensive discoloration [81–100%]) were recorded on d 2, 4, and 6 of retail display by a trained panel. Data were analyzed using the Mixed Procedure of SAS.ResultsFor all pH treatments, PVC packaging possessed the darkest muscle color (P < 0.05) score compared to CO- and HiOx-MAP. When comparing N-pH, M-pH, and H-pH values, CO-MAP had approximately a 27.3%, 22.2%, and 25.3% improvement in muscle color, indicating a brighter lean color compared to PVC. Additionally, HiOx-MAP had approximately a 10.9%, 17.4%, and 16.5% improvement in muscle color score for N-pH, M-pH, and H-pH, respectively. When packaging steaks in either CO- or HiOx-MAP there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between d 4 and 6 of retail display for muscle color. However, there was a significant (P < 0.05) darkening in muscle color for steaks packaged in PVC from d 4 to 6 of retail display. By the fourth d of retail, N-pH steaks packaged in PVC had 38.3% and 39.0% greater (P < 0.05) surface discoloration than CO- and HiOx-MAP, respectively.ConclusionThese results suggest that packaging steaks of different pH categories in CO- or HiOx-MAP can improve the surface color compared to PVC packaging.

Effects of Finishing Diet and Packaging on Longissimus Dorsi Color

ObjectivesMeat color is extremely influential in purchasing decisions as consumers associate a bright-red color with freshness. The type of finishing diet can influence beef color. Previous studies have shown that grass-finished cattle have darker muscle color than grain-finished cattle. With the use of modified atmospheric packaging (MAP), beef purveyors are able to vary the gas compositions within a package and enhance beef color. However, limited studies have determined the effects of modified atmospheric packaging on grass-finished beef color. The objective of this study was to determine how finishing diet and packaging type affects the color of the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle.Materials and MethodsDuring the stocker period, all of the cattle were on a forage diet. Cattle were then randomly assigned to either a conventional grain-based diet or an alfalfa pasture diet for finishing. Both conventionally and pasture-finished cattle were fed for 91 d. Cattle were slaughtered on the same day at a commercial beef processing facility under normal conditions and chilled for approximately 30 h. After grading, one strip loin from each carcass was collected and transported to Oklahoma State University. At 11 d postmortem, one steak (n = 60) from each strip loin was vacuum packaged and randomly assigned to display. Those steaks were then randomly assigned to PVC, HiOx-MAP (80% oxygen and 20% carbon dioxide), or CO-MAP (0.4% carbon monoxide, 69.5% nitrogen, and 30% carbon dioxide) packaging and were displayed under retail conditions for 5 d. Muscle darkening (MD), muscle color (MC), and surface discoloration (SD) were all analyzed by a trained panel (n = 6). MD was evaluated only on d 0 and MC and SD were scored once every 24 h for 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 d. Lipid oxidation was measured by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay on d 4. Data were analyzed using the Mixed Procedure of SAS.ResultsThere was a significant display day by finishing diet by packaging interaction (P < 0.05) for muscle color and surface discoloration. There was also a significant finishing diet by packaging interaction (P < 0.05) for muscle darkening. Steaks packaged in HiOx-MAP remained the most stable in color and the brightest cherry-red colored throughout display time (P < 0.05) compared with other packaging types. PVC was the most discolored (P < 0.05) on d 3 and 4 when compared to HiOx-MAP and CO-MAP with the grain-finished PVC packaged steaks showing the most discoloration on d 4. Pasture-finished steaks packaged in CO-MAP displayed the darkest colored muscle (P < 0.05) on d 0. Steaks packaged in PVC had a higher amount of lipid oxidation (P < 0.05) compared with other packaging types.ConclusionThese results indicate that HiOx-MAP more effectively maintains the desired beef color of bright cherry-red for pasture-finished beef. The results also indicate that the use of appropriate packaging type can minimize the losses due to discoloration of steaks from either grain or grass-finished beef.

Modified Atmospheric Packaging and Antioxidant Enhancement Improves Redness of Atypical Dark-Cutting Beef

ObjectivesDark-cutting carcasses occur when muscle pH does not decrease sufficiently during rigor mortis because of antemortem glycogen depletion. Typical dark-cutting beef have a pH > 6.0, however, atypical dark-cutting (ADC) beef have a pH around 5.7- 5.9 but have a darker lean color similar to dark-cutting beef. Previous studies noted that greater muscle pH in dark-cutting beef increase oxygen consumption and decrease myoglobin oxygenation. However, limited research has determined the biochemical basis of ADC. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to characterize the biochemical basis of ADC beef carcasses and to utilize modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and rosemary enhancement to improve appearance during retail display.Materials and MethodsStrip loins from ADC and USDA Low Choice (C) carcasses were selected from a commercial beef processing plant and transported to the Food and Agricultural Products Center in Stillwater, OK. Control (C) and ADC steaks (prior to enhancement and packaging) were utilized to measure pH, color, oxygen consumption, and proximate compositions. Loin sections were cut into halves and randomly assigned to combinations of packaging types and enhancement treatment. Packaging included high-oxygen MAP (HiOx-MAP; 80% oxygen and 20% carbon dioxide), carbon monoxide MAP (CO-MAP; 0.4% CO, 69.6% N, and 30% CO2), and PVC. Enhancement includes 0.1% rosemary oleoresin pumped to 10% of loin green weights. Following enhancement and packaging, steaks were displayed under retail conditions for 6 d to measure color changes using a HunterLab spectrophotometer. The data were analyzed using the Mixed Procedure of SAS, and the experiment was replicated 13 times (n = 13).ResultsThere were no differences for initial pH or proximate compositions (P < 0.05) between C and ADC. However, ADC had lower initial lightness (L* values), redness (a* values), and red intensity (chroma) compared with C. Further, ADC had greater (P < 0.05) oxygen consumption than C. There was a significant packaging × enhancement × display time interaction resulted for L*, a*, and chroma. CO-MAP and HiOx-MAP in combination with rosemary enhancement improved (P < 0.05) redness of ADC by 61.7% and 42.3%, respectively, compared with ADC in PVC packaging. Similarly, MAP and enhancement improved lightness (L* values) and chroma compared with ADC in PVC. By Day 6 of display, enhanced ADC steaks packaged in both HiOx-MAP and CO-MAP had similar color parameters to control choice steaks; however, non-enhanced ADC steaks had significantly lower a* (P < 0.0001) and chroma (P < 0.01) values when packaged in HiOx-MAP when compared to both C and enhanced ADC.ConclusionThe results suggest that ADC beef has greater oxygen consumption than C steaks even at similar muscle pH. Use of modified atmospheric packaging in combination with enhancement has the potential to improve surface color of ADC beef.

Effect of refrigerated storage conditions on leafy vegetables

Considering the increasing of shelf life of leafy vegetables, the most important factor to keep the quality is the rapid cooling. The lettuce packaging under refrigeration and specific relative humidity just after harvest provides decreased breathing by water loss, which affects addition to weight, appearance, flavor and texture. This study aimed to investigate the effect of temperature and relative humidity in the appearance global of refrigerated curly lettuce and stored in PET crystal surrounded by PVC packaging for 14days. The samples were stored in incubator chamber (B.O.D.), simulating domestic refrigeration conditions at 4°C and a relative humidity of 74%. The package acted as a barrier, slowing food degradation caused by microorganisms and physicochemical changes resulting from the metabolism and external factors. For the sensory analysis we used a hedonic scale unstructured nine points.

The Effect of Modified Atmospheric Packaging on Beef Color Sensory Characteristics of Different Muscle pH Categories

ObjectivesAny deviation from the bright-red color of beef can lead to discounted price or consumer rejection. Fresh beef lean color is influenced by pH. Various packaging techniques have been developed to enhance the lean color of beef steaks. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of modified atmospheric packaging on three different beef muscle pH categories.Materials and MethodsThe three categories evaluated for this study were: Normal (pH = 5.57 ± 0.1; N-pH), Moderately high (pH = 5.70 ± 0.09; M-pH), and High (pH = 6.39 ± 0.03; H-pH). The pH was taken on the carcass, at the 12th and 13th rib interface within 72 h of harvest at a commercial beef processing plant. Strip loins were fabricated from each carcass (n = 12) and sent to Oklahoma State University for further analysis. Strip loins were then cut into 2.54 cm steaks and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 packaging treatments: polyvinyl chloride overwrap (PVC), carbon monoxide modified atmosphere packaging (CO-MAP; 0.4% CO, 69.6% N, and 30% CO2) and high-oxygen modified atmospheric packaging (HiOx-MAP; 80% O2, and 20% CO2). Visual color measurements for muscle color (MC; (1 = extremely bright cherry-red and 7 = extremely dark red), and surface discoloration (SD; 1 = no discoloration [0%] and 7 = extensive discoloration [81–100%]) were recorded on d 2, 4, and 6 of retail display by a trained panel. Data were analyzed using the Mixed Procedure of SAS.ResultsFor all pH treatments, PVC packaging possessed the darkest muscle color (P < 0.05) score compared to CO- and HiOx-MAP. When comparing N-pH, M-pH, and H-pH values, CO-MAP had approximately a 27.3%, 22.2%, and 25.3% improvement in muscle color, indicating a brighter lean color compared to PVC. Additionally, HiOx-MAP had approximately a 10.9%, 17.4%, and 16.5% improvement in muscle color score for N-pH, M-pH, and H-pH, respectively. When packaging steaks in either CO- or HiOx-MAP there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between d 4 and 6 of retail display for muscle color. However, there was a significant (P < 0.05) darkening in muscle color for steaks packaged in PVC from d 4 to 6 of retail display. By the fourth d of retail, N-pH steaks packaged in PVC had 38.3% and 39.0% greater (P < 0.05) surface discoloration than CO- and HiOx-MAP, respectively.ConclusionThese results suggest that packaging steaks of different pH categories in CO- or HiOx-MAP can improve the surface color compared to PVC packaging.

Effects of Finishing Diet and Packaging on Longissimus Dorsi Color

ObjectivesMeat color is extremely influential in purchasing decisions as consumers associate a bright-red color with freshness. The type of finishing diet can influence beef color. Previous studies have shown that grass-finished cattle have darker muscle color than grain-finished cattle. With the use of modified atmospheric packaging (MAP), beef purveyors are able to vary the gas compositions within a package and enhance beef color. However, limited studies have determined the effects of modified atmospheric packaging on grass-finished beef color. The objective of this study was to determine how finishing diet and packaging type affects the color of the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle.Materials and MethodsDuring the stocker period, all of the cattle were on a forage diet. Cattle were then randomly assigned to either a conventional grain-based diet or an alfalfa pasture diet for finishing. Both conventionally and pasture-finished cattle were fed for 91 d. Cattle were slaughtered on the same day at a commercial beef processing facility under normal conditions and chilled for approximately 30 h. After grading, one strip loin from each carcass was collected and transported to Oklahoma State University. At 11 d postmortem, one steak (n = 60) from each strip loin was vacuum packaged and randomly assigned to display. Those steaks were then randomly assigned to PVC, HiOx-MAP (80% oxygen and 20% carbon dioxide), or CO-MAP (0.4% carbon monoxide, 69.5% nitrogen, and 30% carbon dioxide) packaging and were displayed under retail conditions for 5 d. Muscle darkening (MD), muscle color (MC), and surface discoloration (SD) were all analyzed by a trained panel (n = 6). MD was evaluated only on d 0 and MC and SD were scored once every 24 h for 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 d. Lipid oxidation was measured by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay on d 4. Data were analyzed using the Mixed Procedure of SAS.ResultsThere was a significant display day by finishing diet by packaging interaction (P < 0.05) for muscle color and surface discoloration. There was also a significant finishing diet by packaging interaction (P < 0.05) for muscle darkening. Steaks packaged in HiOx-MAP remained the most stable in color and the brightest cherry-red colored throughout display time (P < 0.05) compared with other packaging types. PVC was the most discolored (P < 0.05) on d 3 and 4 when compared to HiOx-MAP and CO-MAP with the grain-finished PVC packaged steaks showing the most discoloration on d 4. Pasture-finished steaks packaged in CO-MAP displayed the darkest colored muscle (P < 0.05) on d 0. Steaks packaged in PVC had a higher amount of lipid oxidation (P < 0.05) compared with other packaging types.ConclusionThese results indicate that HiOx-MAP more effectively maintains the desired beef color of bright cherry-red for pasture-finished beef. The results also indicate that the use of appropriate packaging type can minimize the losses due to discoloration of steaks from either grain or grass-finished beef.

Modified Atmospheric Packaging and Antioxidant Enhancement Improves Redness of Atypical Dark-Cutting Beef

ObjectivesDark-cutting carcasses occur when muscle pH does not decrease sufficiently during rigor mortis because of antemortem glycogen depletion. Typical dark-cutting beef have a pH > 6.0, however, atypical dark-cutting (ADC) beef have a pH around 5.7- 5.9 but have a darker lean color similar to dark-cutting beef. Previous studies noted that greater muscle pH in dark-cutting beef increase oxygen consumption and decrease myoglobin oxygenation. However, limited research has determined the biochemical basis of ADC. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to characterize the biochemical basis of ADC beef carcasses and to utilize modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and rosemary enhancement to improve appearance during retail display.Materials and MethodsStrip loins from ADC and USDA Low Choice (C) carcasses were selected from a commercial beef processing plant and transported to the Food and Agricultural Products Center in Stillwater, OK. Control (C) and ADC steaks (prior to enhancement and packaging) were utilized to measure pH, color, oxygen consumption, and proximate compositions. Loin sections were cut into halves and randomly assigned to combinations of packaging types and enhancement treatment. Packaging included high-oxygen MAP (HiOx-MAP; 80% oxygen and 20% carbon dioxide), carbon monoxide MAP (CO-MAP; 0.4% CO, 69.6% N, and 30% CO2), and PVC. Enhancement includes 0.1% rosemary oleoresin pumped to 10% of loin green weights. Following enhancement and packaging, steaks were displayed under retail conditions for 6 d to measure color changes using a HunterLab spectrophotometer. The data were analyzed using the Mixed Procedure of SAS, and the experiment was replicated 13 times (n = 13).ResultsThere were no differences for initial pH or proximate compositions (P < 0.05) between C and ADC. However, ADC had lower initial lightness (L* values), redness (a* values), and red intensity (chroma) compared with C. Further, ADC had greater (P < 0.05) oxygen consumption than C. There was a significant packaging × enhancement × display time interaction resulted for L*, a*, and chroma. CO-MAP and HiOx-MAP in combination with rosemary enhancement improved (P < 0.05) redness of ADC by 61.7% and 42.3%, respectively, compared with ADC in PVC packaging. Similarly, MAP and enhancement improved lightness (L* values) and chroma compared with ADC in PVC. By Day 6 of display, enhanced ADC steaks packaged in both HiOx-MAP and CO-MAP had similar color parameters to control choice steaks; however, non-enhanced ADC steaks had significantly lower a* (P < 0.0001) and chroma (P < 0.01) values when packaged in HiOx-MAP when compared to both C and enhanced ADC.ConclusionThe results suggest that ADC beef has greater oxygen consumption than C steaks even at similar muscle pH. Use of modified atmospheric packaging in combination with enhancement has the potential to improve surface color of ADC beef.

Upravljanje korišćenjem novog načina PVC pakovanja u poljoprivrednim preduzećima sa agro-ekološkim aspektima

Corporate management demands new ways to improve business. In the paper the author's focus was on the application of PVC packaging from the agro ecological aspect. Comparison of the number of weed weeds in compost that was stored outdoors in relation to the number of weed weeds in compost kept in plastic containers was performed. The experiment was carried out on 10x10 cm plain surfaces of both composts in real nursery production in a large nursery in Novi Sad. Changes were found that indicate differences in the number of weed weeds on all parcels covered with compost that was differently conserved. The obtained average results of the weed plants at the end of the first week on the parcels amounted to the first compost 1.6 and higher compared to 0.9 in the second mode of storage at the end of the second week at 2.8 at 1.4 and at the end of the third week 5.5 compared to 1.1 for composts stored in PVC packaging. PVC packaging can be reused in more than 10 new cycles in nursery production and overall results point to the overall positive trend of such compost storage.

Modified Atmosphere Packaging Improves Surface Color of Dark-Cutting Beef

The objective was to determine the effects of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the surface color of dark-cutting beef that had been aged for 21 d. The USDA Choice (normal-pH; IMPS #180) strip loins (n = 10) and no-roll dark-cutter strip loins (n = 10) were obtained from a commercial packing plant within 72 h of harvest. Both normal-pH and dark-cutting beef were vacuum packaged and aged for 21 d. Steaks were cut from both normal and dark-cutting loins, assigned to 1 of 3 packaging treatments; PVC, HiOx-MAP, and CO-MAP, and stored in a simulated retail display under continuous fluorescent lighting at 2°C for 6 d. Instrumental and visual color were measured every 24 h. Thiobarbituric acid assay was used as an indicator for lipid oxidation. There was a packaging × muscle type × display time interaction (P &lt; 0.0001) for instrumental and visual color. On d 1 of display, dark-cutting steaks packaged in HiOx-MAP had greater (P &lt; 0.001) a* values and chroma than dark-cutting PVC steaks. On d 6 of the display, dark-cutting steaks packaged in CO-MAP had 10 units greater a* values than dark-cutting steaks packaged in PVC. The visual panel also noted less muscle darkening (P &lt; 0.002) in HiOx-MAP and CO-MAP compared with steaks packaged in PVC on d 6 of the display. There was less surface discoloration (P &lt; 0.001) in HiOx-MAP and CO-MAP dark-cutting steaks compared with PVC dark-cutting steaks by the end of the display. There was a packaging × muscle type interaction for instrumental L* values and lipid oxidation. Dark-cutting steaks packaged in HiOx-MAP and CO-MAP had greater (P &lt; 0.05) L* values compared with dark-cutting steaks in PVC packaging. In conclusion, HiOx-MAP improved redness of dark-cutting beef during the initial phase of display, while CO-MAP resulted in a stable red color.

Pomegranate Rind Extract Limits Ground Beef Color Discoloration and Lipid Oxidation

ObjectivesMeat color has a substantial influential in purchasing decisions as consumers associate color with freshness. Discoloration of beef at retail has resulted in a loss of about $1 billion annually. Many additives, including antioxidants, have been utilized in products such as ground beef to increase their shelf life. Therefore, the overall goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of pomegranate rind extract on ground beef color stability and lipid oxidation. Materials and MethodsThe pomegranate rind extract was prepared by mixing dried ground rind powder in boiling water. The mixture was centrifuged to extract the pomegranate rind extract. Course ground beef (80% lean) was mixed with 0, 1, and 1.5% of pomegranate rind extract. The pomegranate rind extract was included into the sample, reground and then formed into a 100 g patty, utilizing the adjust-a-burger patty press. Patties from each treatment were then assigned to 4 different packaging types: PVC, Hi-Ox, CO, and vacuum. Patties packaged in CO and vacuum bags were stored in dark storage 5 d prior to display. The vacuum patties were removed form the bags, packaged in PVC and allowed 1 h to bloom prior to evaluation. Patties packaged in PVC, CO and vacuum were on display for 3 d while patties packaged in Hi-Ox were left on display for 5 d. Patties were evaluated each day by trained color panelists (6 members). Patties were evaluated for display color and surface discoloration. Thiobarbituric acid values were used to indicate lipid oxidation. Lipid oxidation was measured on the control patties on d 0 and then evaluated on all treatments at the end of their assigned display time. The experiments were replicated 6 times (n = 6). The data were analyzed using the Mixed Procedure of SAS, and considered significant at a level of P < 0.05. ResultsDisplay color was brighter cherry red for samples with pomegranate solution compared to the control samples (P < 0.05). Similarly, surface discoloration decreased for patties with the addition of pomegranate solution compared to the controls (P < 0.05). Patties packaged in Hi-Ox maintained color stability longer (P < 0.05) than patties packaged in PVC, CO, and vacuum. There were decreases (P < 0.05) in the lipid oxidation levels of the patties enhanced with 1.0 and 1.5% pomegranate solution compared to the control patties, for all packaging types. Samples enhanced with 1.5% pomegranate solution in vacuum and PVC packaging had 50% less lipid oxidation after display than the control. Similarly, samples with 1.5% pomegranate solution packaged in CO had 65% and Hi-Ox had 75% less lipid oxidation compared to the controls. ConclusionThe use of pomegranate as an antioxidant in ground beef patties had major positive impacts on both color stability and overall freshness (lipid oxidation). The addition of pomegranate will increase the shelf life of ground beef and ultimately decrease the economical loss that results from discoloration of meat.

Effects of novel nitrite packaging film on the bacterial growth of bison strip-loin steaks

This study aimed to determine the effect of different packaging types (overwrapped with polyvinyl chloride film = PVC, vacuum skin packaging = VSP, and vacuum skin packaged with nitrite film = NIT), swabbed steak surface (bottom and top) and ageing time (2 and 9 days) on color stability and spoilage bacteria counts of bison striploin steaks after 7 days of retail display. In comparison to PVC packaging, both VSP and NIT showed more stable color and reduced the bacterial load on the steaks by ∼2log10 for coliforms (p < .0001), ∼0.5 log10 for lactic acid bacteria (p = .005), and ∼1.5 log10 for psychrophilic bacteria (p = .0001). Ageing time (p < .05) increased all spoilage bacteria numbers (∼2 log). The NIT packaging system improved retail color stability of bison steaks; however, the decreased growth of bacteria during retail display was similar to other anaerobic packaging systems. Practical applications Nitrite film packaging (FreshCase®), is a new smart packaging technology which contacts the meat surface, and nitrite embedded in the film surface dissolves into the meat juices, creating a stable, bright-red color in a vacuum package without curing the meat. The FreshCase® technology is already approved for use in the United States providing economic and market advantages to United States retailers. The packaging can offer more than 30 days of shelf life for whole muscle beef and extends typical retail display life up to 28 days compared to 3–5 days for tray over-wraps. This technology opens the possibility to the Bison industry to expand its market, where color stability is an issue and has the potential to eliminate retail losses due to poor color stability and early browning. This will allow the bison industry to transform from mainly frozen, to a more premium fresh meat market.

Uso de embalagem e da refrigeração no armazenamento de lichias “Bengal”

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of packaging and refrigeration on the storage of “Bengal” litchi. Different packaging types were selected: expanded polystyrene trays covered with polyvinyl chloride film (PVC) (T1), polyethylene terephthalate tray (PET) with lid (T2) and absence of packaging (T3). After the selection, the material was split into two lots, where one packaging group was stored at room temperature, 25 °C, for a period of six days and the other group was stored under refrigeration at 5 °C for a period of nine days. Chemical, physical and sensory evaluations were performed every two days (room temperature) and every three days (refrigerated storage), the chemical evaluations being: pH, titratable acidity (TA), soluble solids (SS), ascorbic acid content and SS/TA ratio; physical evaluations being: luminosity, chromaticity, hue angle and weight loss; and sensory evaluations being: appearance, purchase intention and consumer preference. PET packaging showed lower fresh weight loss for the fruits, in the temperatures tested throughout the experiment. PET and PVC packaging were efficient in preventing browning of fruits. The use of PET packaging and refrigeration in the storage of litchi provides better maintenance of the physical, chemical and sensory quality of fruits for up to 9 days.

Effects of new packaging solutions on physico-chemical, nutritional and aromatic characteristics of red raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.) in postharvest storage

Postharvest life of raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.) is limited due to their high respiration rate, loss of firmness and freshness and susceptibility to fruit rot. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effects of various packaging solutions on physico-chemical, nutritional and aromatic properties of raspberries during storage at +4°C up to 7 days. Plastic materials with low (LDPE) and high (LDPE/EVOH/LDPE) gas barrier, a biopolymeric film (PLA) with medium gas barrier and micro perforated stretch film (PVC) were used. The packaging material modified the composition of the atmosphere in the package, which depended on the combined action of the respiration activity of the fruit and the permeability of the material. Results showed that the most sensitive parameters for the assessment of raspberry decay were percentage of damaged berries, weight loss, fruit softening and the aromatic profile development, evaluated by an electronic nose; these parameters showed significant changes during storage and were influenced by the packing material. All samples showed a clear loss of firmness after 4 days of storage, which was maximally reduced in the case of LDPE/EVOH/LDPE and PLA packages. Raspberries stored in PVC packaging material had an aromatic development similar to the control, whereas berries stored in the medium and high barrier materials showed important changes in the aromatic profile, reflecting anaerobic metabolism of fruit. Soluble solids, pH, total phenolics and ascorbic acid did not change significantly; changes in colour and total anthocyanins were observed, with differences depending on the kind of packaging.