Effects of Temperature and Modified Atmosphere on Quality and Storage Life of Brussels Sprouts

Abstract

The effects of temperature and modified atmosphere on Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera) were studied in relation to their quality and storage life. Brussels sprouts in plastic baskets lost their weight and chlorophyll very rapidly at room temperature (31'C) while weight losses of those in sealed plastic bags were almost completely stopped but chlorophyll loss still took place. Chlorophyll loss was delayed at low temperature. High temperature caused Brussels sprouts in sealed plastic bags to develop internal browning and off-oder, and added CO2 in sealed plastic bags increased the severity of disorders but had no effect at low temperature (1° and 5°C). Brussels sprouts in plastic baskets deteriorated very rapidly and had storage life only 3 days while those in sealed plastic bags and held at 1°C had storage life up to 5 weeks.