Abstract

The goals of the present study were to identify resistant mandarin varieties with potential for the fresh fruit market that could enable an extension of the harvesting season and to develop appropriate methods to maintain fruit quality for longer storage periods. Fremont mandarin fruits were harvested at optimum maturity and stored with and without wax coating under different storage conditions: ambient (21 ± 2°C and 60 ± 5% relative humidity (R.H.)) and under refrigeration (8 ± 2°C and 90 ± 5% R.H.). Fruit physicochemical characteristics and acceptability and purchase intention, which were assessed through sensory analysis, were evaluated weekly. Mass loss was higher for fruits stored at ambient temperature. The soluble solids concentrations of fruits stored under refrigeration remained similar to the values measured at harvest. Fruits stored under refrigeration exhibited slightly higher gloss and color than fruits stored at ambient temperature. Wax-coated fruits exhibited lower mass loss and higher gloss and color than uncoated fruits. Similar results were observed for the sensory analysis: wax-coated fruits stored under refrigeration were better rated by panelists until the final evaluation (day 35 after the beginning of storage). Purchase intention was higher for fruits stored under refrigeration than at ambient temperature. It is concluded that uncoated fruits stored at ambient temperature exhibit a tendency to lose quality, which confirms the need for refrigeration and wax coating for post-harvest preservation of fresh citrus fruits. However, the physicochemical and sensory qualities of Fremont mandarins stored under refrigeration for 30 to 35 days are accepted by consumers.

Key words: Citrus spp., preservation, refrigerated storage, sensory analysis, post-harvest.