Postharvest Parameters of the “Fuerte” Avocado When Refrigerated in Different Modified Atmospheres

The objective of this work was to evaluate the refrigerated “Fuerte” avocados stored in different modified active atmospheres. The fruits were wrapped in bags made of nylon plus polyethylene and submitted to the following atmospheres: (I) mixture of ambient gases (0.03% CO₂ and 21.0% O₂); (II) 5.0% CO₂ and 4.0% O₂; (III) 6.0% CO₂ and 4.0% O₂; (IV) 7.0% CO₂ and 4.0% O₂; and (V) 8.0% CO₂ and 4.0% O₂. The bags containing the fruits were stored at 10C ± 1 and 90 ± 5% relative humidity for 25 days and were analyzed every 5 days for weight loss, respiratory activity, pH, firmness, titratable acidity, soluble solids, and activities of the enzymes pectin methylesterase and polygalacturonase. The atmosphere of 7.0% CO₂ and 4.0% O₂ was the most effective in limiting the weight loss and the production of CO₂. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This research will have the practical application of showing producers and suppliers of avocados the best ways to store “Fuerte” avocados. It shows that a modified atmosphere of 7.0% CO₂ and 4.0% O₂ was the most effective in minimizing weight loss and CO₂ production when refrigerated.