Controlled-atmosphere effects on postharvest quality and antioxidant activity of cranberry fruits

The effects of controlled-atmosphere (CA) storage on the firmness, respiration rate, quality, weight loss, total phenolics and flavonoids contents, and total antioxidant activities of the Pilgrim and Stevens cultivars of cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton) have been studied during storage in atmospheres of 2, 21, and 70% O₂ with 0, 15, and 30% CO₂ (balance N₂); and 100% N₂ at 3 °C. Elevated CO₂ concentrations decreased bruising, physiological breakdown, and decay of berries, thereby reducing fruit losses. Respiration and weight loss of fruits decreased, but fruit softening increased, at higher CO₂ concentrations. Accumulations of acetaldehyde, ethanol, and ethyl acetate varied by cultivar and storage atmosphere but were generally highest in the 2 and 70% O₂ and 100% N2 atmospheres and increased in response to elevated CO₂ concentrations. Overall, the 30% CO₂ plus 21% O₂ atmosphere appeared optimal for the storage of cranberries. Sensory analysis is required, however, to confirm that accumulations of fermentation products at this atmosphere are acceptable for consumers. Stevens fruits had a higher phenolics content and total antioxidant activity than Pilgrim fruits. The storage atmosphere did not affect the content of total phenolics or flavonoids. However, the total antioxidant activity of the fruits increased overall by about 45% in fruits stored in air. This increase was prevented by storage in 30% CO₂ plus 21% O₂.