Ambient storage of capsicum (Capsicum annum L.) under different packaging materials

Experiment was conducted to evaluate different packaging materials for extension of shelf life of capsicum fruits. Capsicum fruits were packed in different packaging materials viz. low density polyethylene (LDP, 100 gauge) with and without perforation; LDPE, 150 gauge with and without perforation; Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), 100 gauge with and without perforation; corrugated fiber board (CFB), 3ply, with and without perforation and Cloth bag treated with KMnO₄ (1000ppm and 2000ppm). Quality parameters determined during storage were physiological loss in weight (%), fruit decay loss (%), changes in colour and texture of fruits at two days interval up to 16 days of storage period. Maximum fruit decay loss (60.35%) was recorded under control for 16 days after storage. Shelf life of capsicum may be extended to 16 days with minimum (22.13%) decay loss when fruits were packed in cloth bag treated with KMnO₄, 1000ppm.