Abstract

                                In the present study, various treatments viz dipping in 500 ppm bavistin solution, packaging in 150 gauge LDPE bags, packaging in 150 gauges LDPE with ethylene absorber and packaging of bavistin treated fruits in 150 gauge LDPE bags were applied on custard apple to enhance its shelf life. The treated custard apple fruits were kept at 25-30oC (ambient), 20 and 10oC to determine the effect of temperature and analyzed after every two days interval for various changes. During storage of custard apple, at all temperatures, physical loss in weight, titrable acidity and total soluble solids were found to increase, while the pH was found to decrease. The investigation at ambient conditions (temperature 25-30oC, RH 60-85%) showed that minimum loss in fruit weight was achieved, when fruits were treated with bavistin and packed in LDPE bags with ethylene absorber. This treatment was proved to be the best on account of slower increase in acidity total soluble solids.

Key words : Annona squamosa L., Post harvest treatment, Physico-chemical properties, Shelf life.