G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Ranichauri 249 199, Tehri Garhwal, U.P.
The reduction in per cent marketability and ripening index of fruits harvested without pedicel was faster than the fruits with pedicels. The decay percentage was minimum in fruit harvested with pedicels. However, pedicel on fruit did not influence total soluble solids. The level of acidity was slightly higher and total sugars were lower in pedicellate fruits during storage. The fruits with pedicels had more flesh firmness than non-pedicellate fruits. No bruising or puncturing was recorded in fruit due to pedicel attachment. Thus, pear fruits with pedicels had 3-5 days more shelf life with minimum decay, higher marketability and fruit quality.
