Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Agriculture - Department of Pomology

The current study was carried out during three successive seasons (2013:2016)to study the effect of pre-harvest treatments (CaCl₂ 4%, Chitosan 1%, Combination between CaCl₂ 4% and Chitosan), curing(30 {u00B0}C in durations of 24; 48 and 72 hours and 80-85 RH) and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP)on fruit quality of "Wonderful" pomegranate cultivar during cold storage. Beside,enhance arils (fresh cut) quality attributes during marketability life and evaluation of value chain development in EU market. The results obtained in this work indicated that chitosan alone or in combination withcalcium chloride as pre-harvest treatments, is effective methods for extending the storage life of "Wonderful" pomegranate fruits.The most effective treatment in maintaining fruit quality was CaCl₂4% + chitosan 1 % during cold storage period at 7 {u02DA}C. The weight loss and decay of the fruits progressively increased with storage time. Comparing with control fruit, the, compared with control fruit, the weight loss and decay of packaged pomegranates was significantly reduced. In the control group, visual quality was strongly affected by weight loss, which leads to shriveling and browning of the skin. Indeed, The storage of {u2018}Wonderful{u2019} pomegranate fruit in MAP using commercial Xtend® and Lifespan {u036D} {u036B} sheets effectively reduced weight loss, and maintained fruit quality for at least 5 months after harvest. Exposure to MAP and cold storage in "Wonderful" pomegranate fruit may modify the activity of SOD, CAT and POD. The combination of MAP and cold storage maintained the antioxidant activity in a high level for long time, which increased the antioxidation ability against oxidation damage

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