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The objective of this cooperative research project is to objectively evaluate the effect of 1-MCP (SmartFreshTM) treatment parameters on the quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut produce.
APPROACH: Our cooperative approach will be to maintain quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut produce by optimizing SmartFreshTM treatment concentration and application time. Perform detailed evaluation on product quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut produce exposed to SmartFreshTM in combination with modified atmosphere packaging and cold storage
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PROGRESS: 2006/10 TO 2007/09<Br>
Progress Report Objectives (from AD-416) The objective of this cooperative research project is to objectively evaluate the effect of 1-MCP (SmartFreshTM) treatment parameters on the quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut produce. Approach (from AD-416) Our cooperative approach will be to maintain quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut produce by optimizing SmartFreshTM treatment concentration and application time. Perform detailed evaluation on product quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut produce exposed to SmartFreshTM in combination with modified atmosphere packaging and cold storage. Significant Activities that Support Special Target Populations This report serves to document research conducted under a Trust Fund Agreement between ARS and AgroFresh Inc. Additional details of the research can be found in the report for the parent project 1275-42000-004- 00D, "Microbial Food Safety of Fresh and Fresh-cut Produce." High quality fresh-cut watermelons and tomatoes are in high demand by consumers; however, major losses occur due to the deleterious effects of either internal or external ethylene. The Produce Quality and Safety Laboratory evaluated the effects of 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) on quality and shelf life of fresh-cut fruits and vegetables and found that the application of 1-MCP significantly reduced the development of water soaking appearance in both watermelons and tomatoes. AgroFresh Inc. is utilizing the outcome of this research to further develop 1-MCP products and expand its applications. This project is monitored by meetings, phone calls, e-mails, and visits.