Influence of modified atmosphere packaging and osmotic dehydration on the quality maintenance of minimally processed guavas

The quality of minimally processed guavas (Psidium guajava L.), osmotically dehydrated and packed under passive modified atmosphere, was evaluated during 24 d of storage at 5 degrees C. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) containers had a strong influence on color preservation and weight loss of the guavas. Significant changes in the texture were found due to osmotic dehydration, but the color of the fresh fruit remained unchanged. Osmotically dehydrated guavas stored in MAP showed good microbial conditions during storage. The combination of storage temperature, modified atmosphere packaging, and the osmotic dehydration process maintained the quality of the guavas during 24 d of storage.