Combinations of calcium, modified atmosphere and refrigeration in conservation post harvest of Peruvian carrot

Abstract

The effect of calcium and package on conservation post harvest of Peruvian carrot, Arracacia xanthorhiza (Umbelliferae), was studied during refrigeration storage. Treatments in roots were established by the use or not of calcium (spraying with 0.18 mol/L of CaCl₂; dusting 1 t/ha of calcitico limestone on soil, and without Calcium) and the use of PVC packing, CF film and without packing. The roots were weighed and stored at 4o C. The experiment was carried out in a DIC, 3x3x3 factorial scheme with three replications. Mass loss, protein, nitrogen, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and Iron contents and total carotenoids after 42, 84 e 126 days of storing were determined. Treatments with calcium did not decrease mass loss neither promoted to keep nutritional quality of Peruvian carrot. The roots stored in PVC packing showed higher weight than CF Film packing, but the latter presented appearance proper for marketing. Roots stored without packing were found unfit for marketing at 21 days