Shock and vibration forces influence the quality of fresh-cut watermelon

摘要

The influence of vibration forces on the quality and shelf life of fresh-cut watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) cubes was investigated. Increasing vibration frequencies within the range encountered during normal truck distribution caused an increase in juice leakage from watermelon cubes and a decrease in shelf life. Coefficients of friction were greater between pulpto-pulp compared to plastic packaging material-to-pulp, suggesting that compartmentalized packages that minimize pulpto-pulp contact could help to reduce handling injury to freshcut watermelon in-transit. Studies conducted under commercial transport conditions revealed significant differences in product quality following transport and storage in compartmentalized vs. non-compartmentalized packages.