Impact of modified atmosphere packaging on the osmodehydrated papaya stability

Papaya pieces were osmotically dehydrated in a 50 degrees Brix sucrose solution containing calcium lactate (0.05 M) and lactic acid (0.02 M) as additives for 1 h at 25C, packed in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) containers and stored at 5C for 15 days. Fresh fruit pieces packed in PET containers and under atmosphere condition were used as control samples. Sensory acceptance, microbiological count, CO2 and O-2 content inside the packages, color, mechanical properties and weight loss of the product were evaluated. PET containers prevented weight loss during storage. The utilization of calcium lactate as additive was effective in maintaining fruit hardness during refrigerated storage. The use of passive modified atmosphere associated with refrigeration was adequate to preserve the osmotically dehydrated fruit for 15 days, showing a good sensory acceptance by the consumers during the storage time.