Vol. 73 No: 5

Title:
The Response of Longan Fruit to Cold and Gamma Irradiation Treatments for Quarantine Eradication of Exotic Pests

Author:
R.G. MCGUIRE

pp: 687-690

Abstract:
In separate treatments, fruit of Dimocarpus longan Lour. were subjected to 15 d at 1.1°C or to gamma irradiation from a⁶⁰Co source. Cold-treated fruit were not significantly different from untreated fruit in characteristics including decay susceptibility, firmness, and the percentage of total soluble solids and acids in the pulp, but treatment produced patches of bronze discolouration on the pericarp. Gamma irradiation at 100, 200, or 300 Gy did not significantly affect susceptibility to decay or injure fruit, nor were firmness or external and interior colour reduced. Irradiated fruit, however, had lower percentages of total soluble solids and acids, with a concomitantly higher pH, but sensory evaluations could not differentiate these fruits from untreated ones. Due primarily to the injurious effects of cold treatment on the longan pericarp, irradiation at 100 to 300 Gy would be preferable for maintaining quality of longans that require quarantine treatment for the eradication of exotic pests and are destined for the fresh market.

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