• Horticultural Science & Technology
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• v.32 no.5
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• pp.655-665
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• 2014

The effect of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on kohlrabi (Brassica olerace L. gongulodes group)'s quality and antioxidant molecule during storage was examined to determine the optimal film package for maintaining freshness. To extend shelf life, MAP was tested using PE $50{\mu}m$ and oriented polypropylene (OPP) films with oxygen transmission rate (OTR) at 3,000, 10,000, $15,000mL/m^2/day/atm$. The OPP film packaging with modified oxygen transmission rate showed a delay in a weight loss and extended storage period. The package with OTR 3000 attained the desired gas composition of $O_2$ 3.2-6.7 kPa and $CO_2$ 13.1-19.8 kPa, in storage at room temperature. Kohlrabi stored in this package showed the lowest weight loss and the highest visual quality. Deterioration and off-odor were developed more rapidly in PE $50{\mu}m$ towards the end of the storage at room temperature. However, there are no differences among OTR films in visual quality and off-odor until 60 days at cold storage. Vitamin C content of kohlrabi was reduced rapidly in OTR 15000 with high transmission rate and showed less loss in PE $50{\mu}m$ and OTR 3000 in both room temperatures and cold storage. Results revealed that an OPP film with OTR 3000 extended the shelf life of kohlrabi in storage with maintained quality and vitamin C.