Prediction of hardness development in mangosteen peel using NIR spectroscopy during low temperature storage

Abstract

Peel hardening, due to loss of moisture during low temperature storage, is a prevalent problem in mangosteen. This research develops a model for predicting peel hardening in mangosteen, using a correlation with moisture content as determined by NIR spectroscopy. Mangosteen fruit were stored and their NIR reflectance, moisture content, and peel hardness were measured over time. Additional fruit was also stored for monitoring, and their NIR reflectance measured. Peel hardness of mangosteen in storage initially decreased, and then increased from the middle to the end of the storage period. Changes in peel hardness, based on moisture content over the 28 days of storage at 13 °C can be predicted, as well as for the 16 days storage at room temperature.