BASF FRESHSEAL~R POST-HARVEST COATING REDUCES SHRIVEL AND DECAY OF TOMATO (SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM)

摘要

During the past two seasons, the effect of BASF FreshSeal post-harvest coating was the subject of investigations conducted under the observation of packinghouse management for eight commercial trials. Specifically, the incidence of shrivel and decay along with the overall color development of mature green fruit were evaluated; all are post-harvest concerns that greatly affect commercial shipping operations. During five trials conducted in Virginia in August-September, 2005, FreshSeal treatment reduced total post-harvest losses (i.e., the aggregate of shrivel and decay) by 60% on average compared to mineral oil wax treatment after 12-15 days including gassing at 68 deg F and storage at 55 deg F and 85% relative humidity. During three trials conducted in South Florida in January, 2006, FreshSeal treatment reduced total post-harvest loss by 46% on average compared to mineral oil wax treatment after 17-22 days including gassing at 68 deg F and storage at 55 deg F and 85% RH. The data demonstrates thattreatment with Fresh-Seal CHC resulted in approximately 6 additional, saleable tomatoes per carton. Moreover, the add-on value within Fresh-Seal treated cartons continues to increase directly with price per carton throughout the entire marketing chain including second handlers, wholesalers, re-wholesalers, and retailers. In addition, FreshSeal treatment accelerated fruit maturity by one color stage compared to mineral oil wax treatment; this feature benefits shippers as well as second handlers during the post-harvest marketing period.