Effects and Mechanism of Chitosan Coatings in the Control of Superficial Scald in Apples

Abstract:

The effects of chitosan coatings on the control of superficial scald in “Fuji” apples were investigated, and the dynamic changes in αfarnesene production and oxidation, the texture and function of cell membrane and the activity of enzyme related with browning were also measured to reveal the mechanism of chitosan coatings in the superficial scald control. The results indicated that by chitosan coatings, the respiration rate and the ethylene production were inhibited, the production of αfarnesene and the accumulation of conjugated trienes were reduced, membrane lipid peroxidation was weakened and the integrity of cell membrane was kept, and the increase of polyphenoloxidase (PPO) activities was inhibited, the chitosan coating could effectively control the superficial scald in apples.