Abstract

Two tests were conducted using xenon (Xe), krypton (Kr) and nitrogen (N2) for storage of persimmon fruits. Under test-1, fruits were treated with Xe, Kr and N2 at a partial pressure of 0.3MPa for nine days at 10 oC. In test-2, only Xe gas was applied with 0.3MPa to the fruits for 17 days at 15 oC. In test-1, the estimated respiration rate was the lowest at 3.1 mgCO2 kg–1 h–1 in Xe treated sample, while it was 5.9, 6.7 and 6.9 mgCO2 kg–1 h–1 for Kr, N2 and control treatments respectively. No significant changes in colour and taste were observed at all. In test-2, Xe treatment showed a lower respiration rate (8.0 mgCO2 kg–1 h–1) as compared with the control (10.2 mgCO2 kg–1 h–1). The respiration rates were 47 and 22% lower in Xe treated persimmons than that of the control at 10oC and 15oC, respectively. In the control treatment, colour was started to deteriorate after nine days (test -2). Suppression of both the colour change and browning of flesh were observed in the treated sample. Metabolic activity was suppressed in samples treated with Xe. It was concluded that the Xe treated sample was in good condition. Therefore, the Xe treatment could be used for extending the storage life of persimmon fruit.