Abstract
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L., Italica Group) was stored in the automatic Modified Air System CA (MASCA) storage chamber in order to assess the effect on the retention of broccoli quality and function of the auto-MASCA apparatus.
1) The auto-MASCA apparatus worked as designed and the atmosphere in the CA chamber was well controlled within the range between 2 and 4% for oxygen and 4 and 6% for carbon dioxide, respectively. 2) After 1 day storage, the rate of respiration of broccoli was reduced by approximately 1/2. The rate had decreased by 70% after 2 days of storage. 3) Color, chlorophyll and ascorbic acid content were retained better in broccoli stored under MASCA than in air. 4) The changes of amino acids were retarded by MASCA. 5) Undesirable odors and taste were not developed in the samples of MASCA storage.
The results obtained suggest that auto-MASCA is reliable as a CA storage facility.
