Unravelling physiological and biochemical attributes influencing post harvest quality of gladiolus spikes after packaging and low temperature storage

The perishable nature of flowers urge for their appropriate post harvest management especially storage and packaging that keep the quality and potential vase life for better value. Gladiolus, commonly called as Sword lily, is a commercially important cut flower crop with elegant spikes, bright florets and good keeping quality. In the present study, we investigated the physiological and biochemical attributes affecting post harvest life of gladiolus spikes after packaging and storage. The spikes of four gladiolus cvs. Punjab Glance, Punjab Glad-1, Punjab Glad-2 and Punjab Pink Elegance were harvested at tight bud stage and packed in PP sleeves (25 ?m) and stored vertically at 4-5°C for 6, 9 and 12 days. After storage, the post harvest quality of both packed and unpacked spikes declined with more adverse effect on unpacked spikes. Among different storage durations, the spikes stored for 9 days showed good keeping quality parameters viz., vase life, per cent flower opened, floret size, days to opening of basal floret, maximum number of florets open at one time and water absorbed per spike which were at par with spikes stored for 6 days. The spikes stored for 12 days were found to be unacceptable in comparison to freshly harvested spikes and spikes stored for 6 and 9 days. The improved quality of spikes stored in sleeves could be accounted due to higher membrane stability index, relative water content, catalase and peroxidase activity as compared to unpacked spikes. Thus, loss in quality of spikes as compared to fresh during storage up to 9 days in PP sleeves is better than the complete loss of produce during transportation and gluts. Hence, the spikes of gladiolus could be stored dry at 4±0.5°C in PP sleeves for 9 days without much influence on its post harvest quality.

Survival of Salmonella spp. in minced meat packaged under vacuum and modified atmosphere

Abstract The effect of different modified atmosphere packaging regimes on the behavior of Salmonella spp. on minced meat was studied. Minced meat was experimentally contaminated with a Salmonella spp. cocktail (S. Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium, S. Infantis and S. Arizonae), packaged under vacuum or modified atmosphere with initial headspaces containing 20%O2/50%CO2/30%N2 and 20%O2/30%CO2/50%N2) and stored at 3 ± 1 °C for 12 days. Samples were analyzed for Salmonella spp., viable and lactic acid bacteria count every third day. Salmonella spp. counts decreased during storage in all packaging types, with reductions of about 1.5 log CFU/g. A significant difference (p < 0.01) was noted between Salmonella spp. counts in meat packaged in vacuum and modified atmospheres, although there was no significant difference in Salmonella spp. count between meat packaged in 50%CO2, and meat packaged in 30%CO2. At the end of the study, there were significant differences (p < 0.01; p < 0.05) in total viable and lactic acid bacterial counts between meat packaged in vacuum and modified atmosphere, and the lowest counts were noted in meat packaged in modified atmosphere with 50%CO2.

Refrigeração do sêmen da garoupa-verdadeira Epinephelus marginatus / Refrigerated storage of dusky grouper Epinephelus marginatus sperm

Foram estudados diferentes diluentes no processo de refrigeração do sêmen da garoupa-verdadeira. Inicialmente, a taxa e a duração da motilidade e a concentração espermática foram avaliadas, caracterizando a qualidade do sêmen fresco. Para os testes de refrigeração a 4ºC, diferentes diluentes foram testados em atmosfera normal e modificada (100% oxigênio). O sêmen fresco apresentou concentração espermática de 3,1±0,2 x 109 células mL-1, motilidade média de 90%, permanecendo móvel, em média, por 3.060 segundos. No experimento de refrigeração, a taxa e a duração média da motilidade foram mantidas adequadas durante 144 horas para o diluente A (70%; 3100 segundos) em atmosfera normal. Na atmosfera modificada, a qualidade do sêmen caiu drasticamente durante as primeiras 24 horas, independentemente do diluente empregado, não propiciando vantagem em sua utilização. A refrigeração do sêmen da garoupa-verdadeira permite manter por até 144 horas uma apropriada qualidade espermática.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate different extenders in refrigerated storage of dusky grouper sperm. Initially, motility rate, motility time, and sperm density were analyzed to characterize the fresh sperm quality. Different diluents were used in the refrigerated storage sperm at 4ºC in normal atmosphere and modified atmosphere (100% oxygen). The fresh sperm has a spermatozoa density of 3.1±0.2 x 109 spermatozoa mL-1, motility rate 90% and motility time of 3,060 seconds. In the experiment of refrigerated storage, the motility rate and the motility time were maintained appropriate for 144 hours for the extender A (70%; 3,100 seconds) in normal atmosphere. In the modified atmosphere, the sperm quality decreased drastically during the first 24 hours, independently of the diluent used, not propitiating advantages. The refrigerated sperm of dusky grouper is a viable alternative for the short-term storage, being possible, to maintain for up to 144 hours an appropriate sperm viability.(AU)

Effect of rosemary essential oil and modified-atmosphere packaging (MAP) on meat quality and survival of pathogens in poultry fillets

The effect of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) essential oil (REO) and modified-atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the survival of certain pathogens (Salmonella Typhimurium and Listeria monocytogenes) in poultry fillets and on their meat quality during 7 days of refrigerated storage were investigated. Because REO at 0.05% and 0.1% had weak antibacterial activity and REO at 0.3%, 0.5% and 1.0% imparted unacceptable organoleptic properties, only REO at 0.2% was used to treat the poultry meat. The results showed that adding 0.2% REO to poultry fillets did not reduce the size of the population of S. Typhimurium and L. monocytogenes. However, REO treatment significantly decreased the L* (lightness) value and increased the a* (redness) value of stored fillets, and adding REO in combination with MAP reduced the level of lipid oxidation. In conclusion, in a suitable combination, REO can be applied to improve the quality of meat, but further studies should be conducted to determine the appropriate commercial level for different meat products.

Atmosfera modificada e refrigeração para conservação pós-colheita de camu-camu / Modified atmosphere and refrigeration for postharvest camu-camu

O presente trabalho tem por objetivo avaliar a conservação pós-colheita de camu-camu, utilizando a refrigeração e a atmosfera modificada propiciada pelos filmes de policloreto de vinila (PVC) e polipropileno biaxialmente orientado de 50µm espessura (BOPP50) e assim avaliar a durabilidade em relação ao controle (sem embalagem). Os frutos foram mantidos a 5±1°C e 90±2% de umidade relativa, durante 25 dias e avaliados a cada quatro dias de armazenamento quanto à firmeza, pH, sólidos solúveis, acidez titulável, ácido ascórbico, antocianinas, perda de massa e concentração de CO2 da atmosfera no interior da embalagem. O filme de BOPP50 mostrou não ser a melhor alternativa para a conservação de camu-camu, pois a sua baixa permeabilidade aos gases ocasionou o acúmulo de CO2 no interior da embalagem, propiciando o processo fermentativo dos frutos após 13 dias de armazenamento. Os atributos pH, sólidos solúveis, acidez titulável, ácido ascórbico e antocianinas não foram afetados pelos tipos de filmes utilizados, mas sim pelos dias de armazenamento. Os resultados mostraram que a utilização do filme de PVC, juntamente com refrigeração, para conservação pós-colheita de camu-camu, foi eficaz na manutenção da firmeza do fruto e na redução de perda de massa, mantendo os frutos comercialmente viáveis por 21 dias, enquanto o controle e os revestidos por BOPP50 se apresentaram inviáveis após 13 dias de armazenamento.

This study aimed to evaluate the postharvest camu-camu by using cooling and modified atmosphere propitiated by the films of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) biaxially oriented polypropylene of 50µm thickness (BOPP50) to evaluate the durability the control (without packaging). The fruits were kept at 5±1°C and 90±2% relative humidity for 25 days and evaluated every four days of storage regarding firmness, pH, soluble solids, titratable acidity, vitamin C, anthocyanins, weight loss and CO2 concentration of the atmosphere inside the package. The BOPP50 film showed not be the best alternative for the conservation of camu-camu, because its low permeability to gases caused the accumulation of CO2 inside the package, allowing the fermentation of fruits after 13 days of refrigerated storage. Characteristics of pH, soluble solids, titrable acidity, vitamin C and anthocyanins were not affected by the types of films used, but through the days of storage. The results showed that the use of PVC film with cooling to postharvest camu-camu, was effective to maintain the firmness and reduction in weight loss by keeping the fruit commercially viable for 21 days, while control coated BOPP50 was unviable with 13 days of storage.

Métodos de conservação aplicados a melão minimamente processado / Conservation methods applied to fresh-cut melon

O objetivo desta revisão é apresentar alguns métodos de conservação que podem ser utilizados para prolongar a vida útil do melão minimamente processado. Dentre os métodos, serão abordados revestimento comestível, irradiação, antimicrobianos naturais, antioxidantes, agentes de firmeza, atmosfera modificada, branqueamento, luz ultravioleta e alta pressão. Dependendo do método pode haver redução das alterações associadas ao processo mínimo do melão, como a perda de água, alteração da cor e firmeza, alteração do metabolismo e crescimento de micro-organismos, sendo o resultado muitas vezes dependente da cultivar do melão utilizado.

The objective of this review is to present some conservation methods that can be used to prolong the life of fresh-cut melon. Among the methods, edible coating, irradiation, natural antimicrobials, antioxidants, firmness agent, modified atmosphere, whitening, ultraviolet light and high pressure will be discussed. Depending on the method, the changes associated to minimum process of melon, such as water loss, change in color and firmness, change in the metabolism and growth of micro-organisms can be reduced and the result is often dependent on the melon cultivar used.

Refrigerated poultry breast fillets packed in modified atmosphere and irradiated: bacteriological evaluation, shelf life and sensory acceptance

In the present study the effects on shelf life and sensory acceptance of gamma-irradiated refrigerated poultry breast fillets subjected to modified atmosphere packaging (80% CO2/20% N2 or vacuum) were investigated. After irradiation with 2 kGy, sensory acceptance tests and monitoring of bacterial growth were performed in order to determine the sanitary quality of the samples. It has been found that irradiation, used in combination with modified atmosphere packaging, can double the shelf life of refrigerated poultry breast fillets by reducing the populations of aerobic mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria, enterobacteria, coliforms, Listeria spp. and Aeromonas spp., without significantly modifying its color or its overall appearance, the lactic acid bacteria being the most resistant to exposure to radiation and carbon dioxide.

Microbiology, sensory evaluation and shelf life of irradiated chicken breast fillets stored in air or vacuum

This work investigated the effects of different packaging methods (air and vacuum) combined with irradiation (0.0, 2.0 and 3.0 kGy) on the preservation of chicken breast fillets stored at 1ºC for up to 18 days by sensorial test, determination of pH and bacterial growth. The findings indicated that the post-irradiation lag phase increased with the dose, leading to an extension in shelf-life. Vacuum-packed samples irradiated at 3.0 kGy exhibited the longest shelf life. Among the analyzed bacteria, coliforms and Listeria spp. were most sensitive to gamma radiation. All the fillets acquired more attractive coloration and better overall impression with irradiation. The combined use of vacuum packaging and irradiation (3.0 kGy) reduced the microbial populations without causing change in pH and yielded a significant shelf-life extension of refrigerated fillets, besides improving its appearance.

Efficacy of modified atmosphere packaging to control Sitophilus spp. in organic maize grain

The effect of modified atmosphere packaging on the mortality of Sitophilus spp. in organic maize grain was studied. Maize grains were packed with five different atmospheres consisting of 20 percent O2, or 20, 40, 60, 80 percent CO2 with remaining N2. The packages were stored for 30 days at 26°C. CO2 and O2 concentrations were monitored inside the packages during the storage. The moisture content, titratable acidity and pH were analysed on the first and thirtieth day. At 5, 15 and 30 days of storage no significant differences were observed in the percentages of dead insects when CO2 was used. The results of progeny indicated that from the fifth day the number of emerging insects was low at 20, 60 and 80 percent CO2. Complete inhibition of the insects was achieved with 30 days of exposure in CO2 atmospheres.

O efeito da embalagem em atmosferas modificadas sobre os insetos Sitophilus spp. nos grãos de milho orgânico foi estudado. Os grãos de milho foram empacotados em cinco atmosferas iniciais diferentes de 20 por cento de O2, ou 20, 40, 60, 80 por cento de CO2 com balanço de N2. As embalagens foram armazenadas por 30 dias a 26ºC. As concentrações de CO2 e O2 foram monitoradas dentro das embalagens durante o armazenamento. As análises de teor de umidade, acidez e pH foram também realizados no primeiro e trigésimo dia. Os resultados mostraram que no quinto, décimo quinto e trigésimo dia de estocagem não foram encontrados diferenças significativas nas porcentagens de insetos mortos quando CO2 foi usado. Os resultados relativos à progênie indicaram que no quinto dia o número de insetos emergentes foi menor a 20, 60 e 80 por cento CO2. A completa inibição dos insetos foi atingida com 30 dias de exposição em atmosferas de CO2.

Recobrimentos à base de carboximetilcelulose e dextrina em mangas 'Tommy Atkins' armazenada sob refrigeração / Coatings based on carboximethyl cellulose and dextrin in 'Tommy Atkins' mango fruit stored under refrigeration

Objetivou-se avaliar a eficiência de recobrimentos à base de carboximetilcelulose (CMC) e dextrina em manga 'Tommy Atkins' armazenada durante zero, dez e 20 dias sob refrigeração (12,4±3,1°C e 72±12 por cento UR) e, posteriormente, submetida às condições de ambiente (20,3±3,0°C e 40±7 por cento UR) por três, seis, oito e nove dias. Os recobrimentos CMC 1,0 por cento + dextrina 0,2 por cento, CMC 0,8 por cento + dextrina 0,5 por cento e CMC 0,5 por cento+dextrina 1,0 por cento foram comparados ao controle. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em fatorial 4x7 (recobrimento x tempo de armazenamento), com quatro repetições compostas por três frutos. A aplicação de CMC 1,0 por cento + dextrina 0,2 por cento ou CMC 0,8 por cento + dextrina 0,5 por cento retardou o acúmulo de sólidos solúveis, a redução da acidez titulável e a evolução da cor da casca, com incremento no brilho superficial dos frutos, o que garantiu melhor aparência. Os efeitos indicam atraso da maturação, sendo mais evidentes no tratamento CMC 0,8 por cento + dextrina 0,5 por cento.

It was aimed to evaluate the efficiency of coatings based on carboximethyl cellulose (CMC) and dextrin applied in 'Tommy Atkins' mango fruit stored for zero, ten and 20 days under refrigeration (12.4±3.1°C and 72±12 percent RH) and, after this period, submitted to ambient conditions (20.3±3.0°C and 40±7 percent RH) for three, six, eight and nine days. The CMC 1.0 percent + dextrin 0.2 percent, CMC 0.8 percent + dextrin 0.5 percent and CMC 0.5 percent + dextrin 1.0 percent coatings were compared to the control. The experimental design was completely randomized in factorial 4x7 (coating x storage time), with four replicates constituted by three fruits. The application of CMC 1.0 percent + dextrin 0.2 percent or CMC 0.8 percent + dextrin 0.5 percent delayed the soluble solids accumulation, the titratable acidity reduction and the skin color evolution, increasing fruit brightness that ensured a better appearance. The responses indicate a delay on maturation that was more evident on CMC 0.8 percent + dextrin 0.5 percent treatment.

Embalagens e recobrimento em lichias (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) armazenadas sob condições não controladas / Packing and covering in lychee (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) stored under uncontrolled conditions

A lichia (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) é um fruto subtropical de alto potencial comercial devido ao seu sabor levemente acidificado, excelente aroma, alto valor nutritivo e atrativa cor vermelha da casca. Ainda no campo, a cor da casca altera-se facilmente, tornando-se escurecida em resposta a estresses (alterações da umidade relativa e ataque de patógenos). Após colhida, a casca da lichia perde rapidamente sua cor vermelha. O escurecimento da casca tem sido atribuído a rápida degradação da antocianina, assim como: à rápida perda de umidade pelo fruto e à atividade de enzimas oxidativas como polifenoloxidases e peroxidases. Dada essa alta perecibilidade, o controle do escurecimento é fundamental para o aumento na vida útil pós-colheita, visando ao mercado interno e à exportação de frutas. Avaliou-se, neste trabalho, o comportamento pós-colheita de lichias da cv. Bengal quanto ao escurecimento da casca e às modificações relacionadas com a qualidade da polpa de lichias submetidas a diferentes embalagens: bandeja recoberta com filme de polietileno de baixa densidade com e sem perfurações e frutos recobertos com película de fécula de mandioca (3 por cento). Os frutos foram mantidos em temperatura ambiente (25,1ºC±1,5ºC; 69,3 por cento±8,62 por centoUR) e armazenados por seis dias. Foram realizadas análises físicas, químicas e bioquímicas no dia 0 e a cada 2 dias, até osexto dia de armazenamento. A embalagem recoberta com filme de polietileno perfurado apresentou-se eficiente na redução da perda de massa, escurecimento da casca e na manutenção do teor de antocianina da casca de lichias durante seis dias de armazenamento, em temperatura ambiente.

Lychee is a subtropical fruit of high commercial value, due to its slightly acid taste, excellent aroma, high nutritive value and attractive deep bright red color of its peel. Also in the field, skin color changes easily, becoming dark in response to stress (changes in relative humidity and the incidence of pathogens). Harvested lychee fruit rapidly loses its bright red skin colour. Peel browning of harvested lychee has largely been attributed to the rapid degradation of the anthocyanin pigments as well as the rapid loss of moisture from the fruit and the activity of oxidative enzymes such polyphenoloxidase and peroxidases. Due to it high perishability, browning control is a fundamental process to the increase of post-harvest useful life aiming the home market and fruit exportation. This study evaluated the postharvest behavior of Litchi cv. Bengal fruits regarding pericarp browning and changes on lychee fruits pulp quality when different packing is applied: plastic trays covered with parafilm or solely parafilm, and fruits covered with cassava starch film (3 percent). Lychee fruits were stored for six days at room temperature (25.1ºC±1.5; 69.3 percentUR). Physical, chemical and biochemical analyses were performed on day 0 and on every two days till the end of the storage period. The package covered with perforated polyethylene film was efficient in reducing weight loss, skin browning and maintenance of the anthocyanin content of the bark of leeches for six days of storage at room temperature.

Aumento da vida útil pós colheita de pedúnculos de cajueiro anão precoce pela redução da temperatura de armazenamento / Increasing shelf life of early dwarf cashew tree peduncle through reduction of storage temperature

Conduziu-se este estudo, realizado no Laboratório de Fisiologia e Tecnologia Pós-Colheita da Embrapa Agroindústria Tropical em Fortaleza (CE), com o objetivo de aumentar o tempo de conservação pós-colheita de pedúnculos dos clones CCP 76 e END 183 de cajueiro anão precoce por meio da redução da temperatura de armazenamento. Foi adotado um fatorial em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, cujos fatores foram os clones e o tempo de armazenamento (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 e 30 dias), avaliados em três repetições. Os frutos, colhidos manualmente, no início da manhã, no Município de Beberibe, Ceará, foram acondicionados em caixas plásticas ainda no campo e transportados para o laboratório onde, acondicionados em bandejas de isopor, foram armazenados a 3,4 ± 0,6ºC e umidade relativa de 85 ± 11 por cento, sob atmosfera modificada. Os parâmetros avaliados foram perda de massa, aparência, cor da película, firmeza da polpa, sólidos solúveis totais, pH, acidez total titulável, SST/ATT, ácido ascórbico, açúcares solúveis totais, antocianinas totais e fenólicos. Os resultados mostraram que os pedúnculos do clone CCP 76 têm vida útil pós-colheita de 18 dias, enquanto o END 183, de 28 dias, ambos com reduzida perda de massa, firmeza e antocianinas totais.

This work aimed to increase, through the reduction storage temperature, the post-harvest conservation time of the early dwarf cashew tree peduncle of clones CCP 76 and END 183. It was carried out in the Postharvest Physiology and Technology Laboratory of the Embrapa Agroindústria Tropical in Fortaleza (State of Ceará, Brazil) using a factorial scheme in a randomized design with three replications of the factors (clones and storage duration: 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 days). The fruits evaluated were manually harvested in a farm located in the Municipality of Beberibe, State of Ceará, transported in plastic containers to the Laboratory and stored in extruded polystyrene trays at the temperature of 3,4 ± 0,6ºC and relative humidity 85 ± 11 percent under modified atmosphere. The parameters evaluated were weight loss; appearance; peel color; pulp firmness; total soluble solids (TSS); pH; total titratable acidity (TTA); TSS/TTA ratio; ascorbic acid; total soluble sugars; anthocyanins and phenolics. The analyses showed that the shelf life of the CCP 76 peduncle clone is 18 days while that of the END 183 clone is of 28 days, both with slight loss of mass, firmness and total anthocyanins.

Efeito da embalagem em atmosfera modificada sobre a validade comercial de filé de tilápia nilótica (Oreochromis niloticus) / Effect of modified atmosphere packaging on shelf life in nilotica tilapia fillet (Oreochromis niloticus)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o efeito da Embalagem em Atmosfera Modificada (EAM) sobre a validade comercialde filé fresco de tilápia nilótica estocada sob refrigeração de 5±1°C. Ao longo de 22 dias de estocagem, realizou-se acontagem de bactérias heterotróficas aeróbias mesófilas, análise de pH e análise sensorial de filés de tilápia submetidosaos tratamentos de ar atmosférico (100%), vácuo, 50/50 CO2/N2 e 100% CO2. Os resultados foram tratados estatisticamenteatravés de análise descritiva simples. As contagens bacterianas dos tratamentos 100% ar, vácuo e 50/50 CO2/N2 chegarama níveis >log 8,0 UFC/g nos dias 6, 16 e 12, respectivamente. No tratamento com EAM 100% CO2 as contagens mantiveramseentre log 2,8-4,1 UFC/g. O pH diminuiu com o tempo de estocagem em todos os tratamentos, estando sempre dentro dospadrões permitidos (d6,5). O atributo cor foi alterado significativamente pelos tratamentos com CO2, sendo que no vácuo acor manteve-se normal por mais tempo. Pôde-se concluir que a EAM com 100%CO2 apresentou melhores resultados noaumento de validade comercial de filés de tilápia estocados a 5°C, mantendo a contagem de mesófilos e valores de pH emníveis aceitáveis durante todo o período de estocagem de 22 dias.

The aim of the present work was to determine the effect of modified atmosphere packaging on shelf life in tilapia fillet stored at 5.0±1.0°C. The methodology consisted on four treatments of tilapia fillets: atmospheric air (100%), vacuum, 50/50 CO2/N2 and 100% CO2 , stored during 22 days under refrigeration at 5°C. The analyses were: mesophilic aerobic counting, pH and sensorial analysis. Statistical analysis was made by descriptive simple method. The results were: the bacterial counting of the treatments 100% air, vacuum and 50/50 CO2/N2 had arrived the levels >log 8.0 in days 6, 16 and 12, respectively. In tilapias filets with 100% CO2 the microbiological counting had been between log 2.8-4.1 UFC/g). The four treatments presented decreased pH with the time of stockage. The values were d”6.5, that represent acceptable standard. At sensorial analysis all CO2 treatment had significantly changed the fillet tilapia color. At vacuum the color was normal for longer time. The experiment permit conclude that 100%CO2 was the best ones treatment for longer the shelf life of tilapia fillet stored at 5.0°C, with microbiological counting and pH being in acceptable levels during all 22 days of storage.

Influência do ácido lático e da embalagem em atmosfera modificada sobre a validade comercial da linguiça frescal de frango / Influence of lactic acid and modified atmosphere packing in shelf life of fresh poultry sausage

O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a influência da embalagem em atmosfera modificada (EAM) e do ácido lático (AL) navalidade comercial da linguiça frescal de frango. Para tanto, foram processadas duas massas de linguiça, sendo uma delasadicionado ácido lático (0,15%). As linguiças foram então embaladas nas seguintes atmosferas: 100%ar atmosférico, 100%N2, 100% CO2, 80% CO2/20% N2, 40% CO2/60% N2 e 20% CO2/80% N2, e armazenadas durante 16 dias a 4±2oC. Foramrealizadas, nos dias 0, 1, 9 e 16, análises bacteriológicas: contagem em placa de bactérias heterotróficas aeróbias mesófilas,bactérias heterotróficas aeróbias psicrotróficas, bactérias ácido-láticas, enterobactérias e Pseudomonas; e determinaçãodo pH. A EAM a 80/20 CO2/N2 mostrou-se como método mais eficaz, sob o ponto de vista microbiológico, em termos deconservação da linguiça frescal de frango, atingindo ao final do experimento valores de 6,0; 5,3 e 5,0 Log UFC/g (bactériasmesófilas, psicrotróficas e ácido-láticas, respectivamente). Em relação à adição do AL, tal tratamento foi eficaz sob o aspectode inibição microbiológica em quase todas as atmosferas, com exceção da 80/20 CO2/N2. Durante o experimento, não foiobservado crescimento de enterobactérias e Pseudomonas. Em relação ao pH, pôde-se observar que a adição de 0,15% deAL provocou uma queda do pH de 5,89 para ~5,50, suficiente para acarretar uma inibição significativa da taxa de multiplicaçãomicrobiana nas diferentes atmosferas, exceto na 80/20 CO2/N2. Pôde se concluir que a EAM com 80/20 CO2/N2, mostrou-secomo o método de conservação mais eficaz quanto ao aumento da vida útil da linguiça de frango e a adição de 0,15% de ALdemonstrou ser uma alternativa eficaz para conservação deste produto.

The present work has an objective to observe and to characterize, through microbiological analyses and pH determination, the influence of the Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) and the lactic acid addictive in shelf life of fresh poultry sausage. Two sausage batches were made under laboratory control. One of them was added of lactic acid (0.15%). The samples were processed, and packaged in plastic bags (four sausages per bag). Finally, the bags were filled with different atmospheres: 100% air, 100% N2, 100% CO2, 80/20 CO2/N2, 40/60 CO2/N2 and 20/80 CO2/N2. Samples were stored in walk?in cold rooms at 4±2°C. Samples were taken at different days of storage (zero, 1, 9 and 16). Both added and not added with lactic acid samples were subjected to total viable aerobic counts (mesophylic and psycrophylic), lactic acid bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, and Pseudomonas sp. in specific media plates. Also, it was determinate the pH of all the samples. The results were arranged in tables and graphs for the descriptive statistical analyses. The MAP 80/20 CO2/N2 was the more effective method to conserve fresh poultry sausages, reaching at the end of the experiment values of 6.0; 5,3 and 5.0 Log UFC/g (mesophylic, psycrophylic and acid-lactic bacteria, respectively), comparing to the conventional package (100% air) and 100% N2 that reached at the end of the experiment maximum values of 8.8 and 9.4 Log UFC/g, respectively. The addition of the acid lactic was effective about the aspect of microbiological inhibition, reaching inferior values in almost all the atmospheres comparing to the samples without addition of the acid, except to 80/20 CO2/N2, that the values of the microbial count in both treatments (with and without acid) they were very close. During the experiment, it was not observed the growth of Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas. Analyzing the pH, it can be observed that the addition of 0.15% lactic acid caused a fall of the pH of 5.89 for ~5.50, enough to inhibit the microbial multiplication in the different atmospheres, except in 80/20 CO2/N2. After analyzed this results, it was concluded that MAP to 80/20% of CO2/N2 was the more effective method to increase the shelf life of the fresh poultry sausage, added or not added with lactic acid; the addition of 0.15% of lactic acid was an effective alternative for conservation of fresh poultry sausage chicken, wrapped or not in modified atmosphere

Análise da qualidade sanitária de vegetais minimamente processados em embalagens com e sem atmosfera modificada / Analysis of the sanitary quality of minimally processed vegetables in packaging with and without modified atmosphere

O consumo de alimentos minimamente processados tem aumentado nos últimos anos devido a sua praticidade e conveniência. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo analisar a qualidade microbiológica e parasitológica de vegetais minimamente processados armazenados em diferentes tipos de embalagens. Foram adquiridas 70 amostras aleatoriamente nos hipermercados no município de Taubaté, SP; sendo 30 embaladas em atmosfera modificada, e 40 em embalagens sem atmosfera modificada. Foram realizadas análises de coliformes totais e coliformes termotolerantes; Escherichia coli; bactérias aeróbias mesófilas e detecção de Salmonella. As amostras com e sem atmosfera modificada apresentaram coliformes totais maior que 103 NMP/g em 9 (63,3%) e 28 (70%), respectivamente. Em ambos os grupos a contagem de bactérias aeróbias mesófilas estavam acima de 106 UFC/g; coliformes termotolerantes menor que 102 NMP/g e ausência de Salmonella. Não houve diferença na contagem de coliformes totais e bactérias aeróbias mesófilas nos dois tipos de embalagens. As amostras analisadas neste trabalho apresentaram altas contagens de bactérias aeróbias mesófilas e coliformes totais, estes resultados podem contribuir para alertar as autoridades sanitárias para o risco potencial destes produtos para o consumidor.

The consumption of minimally processed foods has increased in recent years due to its practicality and convenience. This study aimed to examine the microbiological quality of minimally processed vegetables stored in different types of packaging. They were purchased randomly 70 samples hypermarkets in Taubaté, SP, from March to November 2007, 30 packed in modified atmosphere, and 40 withoutmodified atmosphere packaging. Samples were evaluated for total coliforms and thermotolerants coliforms, Escherichia coli; aerobic mesophiles bacteria and Salmonella. The samples with and withoutmodified atmosphere had total coliforms greater than 103 NMP/g in 19 (63.3%) and 28 (70%), respectively. 1n both groups the count of aerobic mesophile bacteria were above of 105 CFU/g; thermotolerants coliforms less than 102 NMP/g and absence of Salmonella. Samples analyzed in this study showed high counts of aerobic mesophiles bacteria and total coliforms, these results may help to alert health authorities to the potential risk of these products to the consumer.

Uso de misturas químicas para a manutenção da firmeza de banana 'Prata' minimamente processada / Use of chemical mixtures for firmness maintenance of fresh-cut 'Silver' banana

A banana constitui interessante alternativa para compor saladas de frutas. No entanto, possui curta vida de prateleira após o processamento mínimo em razão da rápida perda da firmeza. Neste trabalho, objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da mistura química contendo cloreto de cálcio, ácido ascórbico e L-cisteína e/com o uso de atmosfera modificada ativa (10 kPa CO2 e 2 kPa O2), enfatizando a perda de firmeza sobre a qualidade e vida de prateleira de banana 'Prata' minimamente processada. O conteúdo de pectina solúvel e a por cento de solubilização aumentaram significativamente ao longo do período de conservação. A perda de firmeza e o aumento das atividades das enzimas poligalacturonase e pectinametilesterase apresentaram uma interação significativa entre os fatores estudados (Tratamento/Tempo). As fatias tratadas com misturas químicas permaneceram com boas características para o consumo por até 3 dias de conservação. Os tratamentos com injeção inicial de gases de forma isolada, ou junto ao tratamento com mistura química, não propiciaram maior retenção da firmeza de banana 'Prata' minimamente processada em relação ao tratamento contendo L-cisteína (1 por cento p/v) + ácido ascórbico (1 por cento p/v) + cloreto de cálcio (1 por cento p/v) na mistura química.

Banana constitutes an interesting alternative to make fruit salad. Nevertheless, they have short shelf life after cutting due to the fast loss of firmness. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of chemical mixtures containing calcium chloride, ascorbic acid and L-cysteine with the use of active modified atmosphere (10 kPa CO2 and 2 kPa O2), emphasizing the lost of firmness on the quality and shelf life of fresh-cut 'Silver' banana. Soluble pectin content and the percentage of solubilization increased significantly throughout the conservation period. The lost of firmness and the increase of pectinmethylesterase and polygalacturonase activities presented a significant interaction among the studied factors (treatment/time). The slices treated with chemical mixtures remained with good characteristics for consume until 3 days of conservation. The treatments with an isolated initial gas injection or together with the chemical mixture treatment didn't promote better firmness retention of fresh-cut 'Silver' banana in relation to the treatment containing 1 percent (w/v) L-cysteine + 1 percent (w/v) ascorbic acid + 1 percent (w/v) calcium chloride in the chemical mixture.

Uso de filmes de polietileno e absorção de etileno para o transporte refrigerado de mação 'gala' / Use of polyethylene bags and ethylene obsorption on refrigerated transport of 'gala' apple fruit

Conduziu-se um experimento com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito do uso de filmes de polietileno (PE) de diferentes espessuras e o uso de sachês obsorvedores de etileno sobre a composição gasosa presente nas embalagens e sobre a qualidade da mação 'Gala', durante o período de transporte sob refrigeração. Os tratamentos foram obtidos pela combinação de duas espessuras de filmes de polietileno [polietileno de alta densidade (PEAD) de 7mm e polietileno de baixa densidade (PEBD) de 20mm] e de diferentes quantidades de sachês absorvedores de etileno (permanganato de potássio) por embalagens (0,1 e 3 sachês). Cada unidade experimental constitui-se de 18kg de frutos, que haviam sido previamente armazenados a 0,5ºC por um mês. Após este período, os frutos foram embalados nos filmes, acondicionados em caixas de papelão e submetidos durante 15 dias a 4ºC e mais três dias a 20ºC. Verificou-se que o uso de filmes de PEBD de 20um permitiu menores concentrações de 02 e de etileno e maiores de CO2, em relação ao filme de 7um, no interior das embalagens. Além disso, o uso de sachês absorvedores de etileno diminui a concentração de etileno. No entanto, devido ao curto período de armazenamento (15 dias) e á maturação dos frutos no momento da embalagem, a redução dos níveis de etileno não apresentou efeito significativo nos atributos qualitativos dos frutos.

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the gaseous composition and quality maintenance of 'Gala'apples, stored within polyethylene (PE) bags of different thickness combined with ethylene absorption,during refrigerated transport. The treatments evaluated were combinations of two PE film thickness [highdensity polyethylene (HDPE) of 7µm and low density polyethylene (LDPE) of 20µm] with different number ofethylene absorbents (potassium permanganate) per bag (0, 1 and 3). Each experimental unity contained 18kgof fruits previously stored at 0.5°C during 1 month. After this period fruits were wrapped with the films andpacked in cadboard boxes, being submitted during 15 days at 4°C, simulating refrigerated transport plus 3days of shelf-life at 20°C. Lower levels of O2 and ethylene and higher of CO2 were observed within LDPE bagsof 20µm than in HDPE bags of 7µm. Moreover, the use of ethylene absorbents reduced the ethylene levelwithin bags. However, due to the low storage time (15 days) and fruit ripeness at the packaging, the reductionof ethylene levels did not show significant effect on fruit quality

Fate of Helicobacter pylori artificially inoculated in lettuce and carrot samples

Helicobacter pylori is known, worldwide, as the causative agent of gastric diseases. However, its transmission route has not been completely understood. To evaluate the survival of H. pylori (a clinical and a reference strain) artificially inoculated on lettuce and carrot samples, portions of 25 g were inoculated with approximately 10(6) CFU/g of H. pylori and packed under normal and/or modified atmosphere (3% oxygen, 10% carbon dioxide, and 87% nitrogen). The inoculated food samples were stored at 8ºC, with daily enumeration of H. pylori populations on Columbia blood agar (CBA) and/ or Helicobacter pylori Special Peptone Agar (HPSPA). When CBA with antibiotics was used, the clinical isolate H. pylori HP1 was detected for up to 72 h in sanitized lettuce and carrot. In sterilized carrot samples, H. pylori HP1 remained viable for up to 96 h. The CBA without antibiotics allowed the recovery of H. pylori ATCC 43629, from carrot samples stored in both atmospheres tested, for up to 120 hours. Our results reinforce that foodborne transmission of H. pylori cannot be disregarded yet.

H. pylori é o agente da maioria dos casos de gastrites e úlceras pépticas. Entretanto, sua forma de transmissão não foi completamente elucidada. Para avaliar a sobrevivência de H. pylori (uma cepa de referência e uma clínica), artificialmente inoculado em amostras de cenoura e alface, porções de 25g das amostras receberam aproximadamente 10(6) UFC/g de H. pylori, e foram embaladas em atmosfera normal e/ou modificada (3% oxigênio, 10% dióxido de carbono, e 87% nitrogênio). Em seguida, foram armazenadas a 8ºC, com enumeração diária da população de H. pylori em ágar Columbia sangue (CBA) e/ou Helicobacter pylori Special Peptone Agar (HPSPA). Quando usamos CBA com antibióticos, o isolado clínico de H. pylori (HP1) foi detectado por até 72 horas nas amostras de alface e cenoura sanitizadas. Em amostras de cenoura esterilizadas, H. pylori HP1 permaneceu viável por até 96 horas. CBA sem antibióticos permitiu a recuperação de H. pylori ATCC 43629, a partir de amostras de cenoura embaladas em ambas as atmosferas, por até 120 horas. Nossos resultados reforçam que a transmissão de H. pylori, através do consumo de água e alimento contaminados, ainda não pode ser descartado.