Project Detail
Project Number
A 03-04
Project Leader
W. R. Witbooi
Institution
ExperiCo Agri-Research Solutions
Team Members
-
Student(s)
-
Date Started
March, 2004
Date Completed
September, 2008
Effect of methyl bromide fumigation as a phytosanitary treatment on the post-harvest quality of apples
Executive Summary
- The effect of methyl bromide fumigation, applied at 64 g/m3 for 2 h at a pulp temperature of 7- 10°C, after packing (before simulated shipping), or 4 weeks after packing (simulate arrival overseas) on Granny Smith and Royal Gala apples, was evaluated in 2004 and 2005, after a total storage period of 7 weeks at -0.5°C + 7 days at 10°C. The results indicated that fumigation of apples after packing poses a higher risk for methyl bromide damage than if fumigated upon simulated arrival overseas. The other quality disorders were not influenced by methyl bromide fumigation.
- During the 2006 season, Granny Smith apples were stored for 8 and 12 weeks under regular atmosphere conditions in bins at -0.5°C, packed in bags, and then fumigated with methyl bromide at different time intervals after packing (10 to 30 days after packing). Apple quality was evaluated after a total storage period of 7 weeks at -0.5°C + 7 days at 20°C. Although no methyl bromide damage occurred in any of the treatments, decay levels were generally higher in the methyl bromide treated apples. Granny Smith apples should therefore be marketed as soon as possible after fumigation with methyl bromide.
- During the 2007 season, three populations of Granny Smith apples were fumigated with methyl bromide 4 weeks after packing, and then stored for an additional 3 weeks at -0.5°C + 7 days at 20°C. Methyl bromide did not have an adverse influence on storage quality.
- The effect of methyl bromide on storage quality of Pink Lady apples was evaluated in 2007 and 2008. Flesh firmness tended to be lower in the methyl bromide treatments. Other storage quality parameters were not adversely affected by methyl bromide.
- Overall, the results showed that Granny Smith, Royal Gala and Pink Lady apples could be fumigated with methyl bromide upon arrival overseas. Such apples should preferably be marketed within 3 weeks after fumigation.
For Final Report, please contact:
anita@hortgro.co.za