Shelf life extension of fresh asparagus using modified atmosphere packaging and vacuum skin packaging in microwavable tray systems

This study was to evaluate the packing technology using modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and vacuum skin packaging (VSP) to extend the shelf life of fresh asparagus in a microwaveable package as a ready ‐to‐eat product. It was found that the shelf life of asparagus could be extended up to 2 weeks for both the MAP and VSP technologies. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) is one of the most popular vegetables because it contains a wealth of fiber and several essential nutrients. It is a very perishable commodity due to its very high respiration rate. To maintain product quality and to satisfy consumer demand as a convenient food, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), vacuum skin packaging (VSP), and microwaveable containers were used to extend the shelf life of fresh ‐cut asparagus as a ready‐to‐eat food product. The objective of this study was to determine the shelf life of fresh‐cut asparagus packed in MAP and VSP microwaveable tray systems at commercial storage conditions, 4°C, 80% RH. Weight loss, moisture content, O2/CO2 concentration in the package headspace, product pH, microbial growth, and sensory evaluation were used to determine the product quality and shelf life. Moreover, the preference of product appearance and the quality of the cooked asparagus in both microwaveable tray systems at different cooking times and microwave power levels was also sensorially evaluated. During storage for 21 days, there was no significant difference (p> 0.05) in weig...
Source: Packaging Technology and Science - Category: Food Science Authors: Tags: RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research