DefinePK

Research Objective

To investigate the post-harvest effects of potassium permanganate and calcium chloride on peach fruit quality characteristics during cold storage, aiming to identify appropriate doses for increasing shelf-life and quality.

Methodology

Freshly harvested peach fruits were treated with potassium permanganate (2%), calcium chloride (2%), a combination of both (2% each), a combination of both (4% each), and a control (no treatment). Fruits were stored in cold storage (2-4°C) for 20 days. Total soluble solids (TSS), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, and phytochemical screening were assessed at 5-day intervals. Data were analyzed using ANOVA under a completely randomized design.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
A[Fruit Collection and Washing] --> B[Treatment Application];
B --> C[Cold Storage2-4°C];
C --> D[Parameter Measurement 5-day intervals];
D --> E[Data Analysis - ANOVA];
E --> F[Conclusion];                    

Discussion

The combination of calcium chloride and potassium permanganate slows down metabolic processes, prolonging ripening and reducing the conversion of carbohydrates to sugars, thus increasing total phenolic compounds.

Key Findings

Peach fruits treated with a combination of potassium permanganate (2%) and calcium chloride (2%) showed the most promising results, increasing shelf life and maintaining fruit quality. This treatment resulted in the highest TSS, CAT, and total phenolic content.

Conclusion

Post-harvest application of 2% calcium chloride and 2% potassium permanganate is recommended for enhancing the shelf life and maintaining the quality of peach fruits under cold storage conditions.

Fact Check

1. The experiment was conducted in 2019 at The University of Haripur, Pakistan. (Confirmed by text)
2. Fruits were stored in cold storage at 2-4°C for 20 days. (Confirmed by text)
3. Data was taken at 5 days' interval. (Confirmed by text)

Mind Map