MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE INFLUENCE IN ORGANIC 'TITA' PLUMS QUALITY.

The modified atmosphere is intensively studied as a fruit storage method due to consumers growing demands regarding the fresh fruit quality. The aim of this study was to extend the organic plums shelf life, by packing them in biodegradable, eco-friendly trays, and to ensure that the physicochemical and nutritional characteristics are maintained throughout the storage period. The experiments were performed in 2019 and 2020 with organic 'Tita' plums harvested at the end of July, packed immediately and cold stored at 1 ± 0.5 °C and 85 ± 5 % RH. The modified atmosphere was realised in passive way through respiration and transpiration processes of organic plums. As control, unpacked plums were kept in same storage conditions. The results showed small decreases for physicochemical characteristics of organic 'Tita' plums stored in modified atmosphere, after more than 40 days, for both years of study. Based on the physicochemical and nutritional properties we can state that organic 'Tita' plums packed in biodegradable and compostable trays were better preserved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]