Conservação pós-colheita de camu-camu (Myrciaria dúbia (H. B. K.) McVaugh) pelo uso de atmosfera modificada e refrigeração

Abstract

Camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia (H.B.K.) McVaugh) is a native fruit of Amazon region that presents sour taste and high ascorbic acid content. For its high ascorbic acid levels, it became a commercial alternative in the fruit market. In order to evaluate its potential conservation, camu-camu fruit was stored at two different stages of maturation: Stage A - Ripe fruit, with purple-red color; Stage B - Mid-ripe fruit, partially red. The fruit was packed in low density PVC film without perforations. Fruit without film was used as a control group. All the dishes were maintained at 5°C (68,20% R.H.) and 10°C (68,10% R.H.). Weight loss, humidity, titratable acidity, pH, soluble solids, soluble solids/acidity ratio, sugars, starch, ascorbic acid, anthocyanins and phenolic compounds were analyzed. PVC film associated with refrigeration decreased markedly weight loss and provided fruit units with better appearance. Storage at 5°C was more effective to reduce losses of anthocyanins and ascorbic acid, independent of the stage of maturation. Modified atmosphere in association with refrigeration at 5°C was the most suitable condition to storage this type of fruit.