Abstract:This study aimed to investigate the effects of packaging bags with different gas permeability parameters on the quality changes of eggplants during postharvest low-temperature modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) storage, and to identify suitable packaging film materials for eggplant preservation under cold storage. Five types of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bags (20 cm×50 cm) with varying permeability parameters were used to seal and store eggplants at (12±0.5)℃ for 30 days. Changes in gas composition (O2 and CO2) inside the packaging, peel hardness, flesh color difference, sensory evaluation scores, and the activities of peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) were measured during storage. The results showed that the permeability parameters of the packaging film significantly influenced all measured indicators during postharvest MAP storage. The packaging with O2 and CO2 permeability parameters of (4623 ± 834) cm3/m2·d·0.1 MPa and (18033 ± 3356) cm3/m2·d·0.1 MPa, respectively, achieved relatively stable gas levels (O2:4.94%-6.29%;CO2:4.16%-4.62%) within 10 days of storage. After 30 days, this treatment maintained the highest appearance index (66.11), lowest decay index (18.75), and lowest chilling injury index (7.50). It also preserved peel hardness and flesh color (Hue value), sustained POD and CAT antioxidant enzyme activities, and suppressed PPO activity within a low range.This packaging film can be used as a suitable MAP material combined with low-temperature storage to extend the postharvest freshness period of eggplants.
