Abstract
This study evaluated changes in freshness over time after harvest to determine the optimal preservation method for Coprinus comatus, which deteriorates rapidly after harvest. The assessment of raw fruit bodies during storage was based on changes in breaking strength and color (lightness: L*) over time, while changes after long-term storage (4 months) of retorted products were evaluated using breaking strength. The rates of decrease in brightness were 3.13 ± 0.08%, 10.46 ± 0.08%, and 60.39 ± 0.16% (n = 5, mean ± standard error) when stored at 10°C under a modified atmosphere (MA), 25°C MA, and wrapped at 25°C (MA storage for 10 days, wrapping for 3 days), respectively. Therefore, storage at 10°C under MA conditions was found to be superior. The breaking strength of retorted products was 10.8 ± 1.18 N (n=10, mean ± standard error) immediately after processing, and after 4 months of storage, the values were 12.9 ± 0.64 N and 13.2 ± 0.34 N when stored at 10°C and 30°C, respectively. Thus, no significant deterioration was observed in the temperature-dependent change in the breaking strength of retorted products over time.
