Investigating the impact of product-to-package volume ratio on strawberry quality within modified humidity packaging systems

Abstract

To reduce high humidity, minimise postharvest losses and optimise packaging volume, this study examines the effects of different product-to-package volume ratios (G/P) in modified humidity packaging systems using perforated containers and moisture conditioning agents. Strawberries were stored at 20 °C and 50% RH for 7 days with G/P ratios of 1:24, 1:12, 1:6 and 1:4, and their sensory and physicochemical properties were evaluated. The results show that moisture-controlled packaging effectively preserves strawberry quality compared to non-humidified packaging. Strawberries with a G/P of 1:24 in humidified packs had the best colour, aroma and texture on day 7. Higher G/P ratios correlated with increased quality deterioration. The lowest deterioration rates were observed in the G/P 1:24 and 1:12 groups, which also had the highest levels of vitamin C (54.72 mg/100 g and 55.40 mg/100 g), anthocyanins (1.086 ΔOD g⁻¹ and 0.966 ΔOD g⁻¹) and flavonoids (0.748 ΔOD g⁻¹ and 0.726 ΔOD g⁻¹). Although hardness, TSS and TA showed no significant correlation, these parameters were better in moderate G/P groups (1:12 and 1:6). These findings suggest that combining perforation with humidifiers in packaging can enhance the storage quality of fruits and vegetables while reducing packaging costs.