Controlled atmosphere storage is a vital postharvest practice for apple growers looking to maintain fruit quality and extend shelf life. By manipulating the levels of carbon dioxide and oxygen, as well as moderating temperature and humidity, CA storage works to slow respiration and delay ripening in apples. This process is crucial in ensuring that the apples remain firm and crunchy for an extended period of time, allowing for an increase in the domestic supply of local apples.
Jennifer DeEll, a horticulture fresh market quality specialist with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Agribusiness (OMAFA), has conducted extensive research on apple storage and CA storage in particular. Her research has shown that apples can be safely stored at lower oxygen levels, leading to improved fruit quality. By creating a list of common CA storage regimes for various apple cultivars grown in Canada, DeEll has provided valuable guidelines for apple growers to follow in order to maximize the benefits of CA storage.
Precision is key when it comes to setting the optimal balance of carbon dioxide, oxygen, and temperature for each apple cultivar. Following the recommended guidelines for each variety can significantly extend their storage life, allowing growers to keep apples in storage for longer periods without compromising quality. DeEll emphasizes the importance of maintaining low oxygen levels to achieve firmer fruit and higher quality, as well as the potential risks of fermenting or rotting if oxygen levels are too low or too high.
In addition to controlling carbon dioxide and oxygen levels, the cooling rate of the apples after harvest can also impact postharvest damage. Rapid cooling to low temperatures can lead to issues such as internal browning and stem-end browning, highlighting the importance of a gradual cooling process. Furthermore, a stressed crop that has not received sufficient water during critical periods can result in weaker tissue that is more susceptible to damage during the chilling process. This emphasizes the fact that proper storage practices are only effective if the fruit going into storage is healthy and undamaged.
DeEll’s research has shown that careful attention to the details of CA storage, including oxygen levels, cooling rates, and crop health, can significantly impact the quality and shelf life of apples. By implementing the recommended storage practices, apple growers can maximize the benefits of CA storage and ensure that their crop remains fresh and marketable for an extended period of time.
In conclusion, controlled atmosphere storage is a valuable tool for apple growers looking to maintain fruit quality and extend shelf life. By following the guidelines provided by experts like Jennifer DeEll, growers can optimize the storage conditions for their apple cultivars and maximize the benefits of CA storage. With proper attention to detail and careful monitoring of oxygen levels, cooling rates, and crop health, growers can ensure that their apples remain firm, crunchy, and marketable for an extended period of time.
