Efecto de la radiación UV-C sobre la calidad y la flora fúngica contaminante natural de arándanos (Vaccinium corymbosum L., variedad O’Neal)

The effect of UV-C radiation (in vitro tests: 4 W m-2, for 20 min) on the conidia of the four more frequent and abundant molds isolated from blueberry (Aspergillus niger, Arthrinium phaeospermun, Penicillium decumbens, and Eurotium repens) was modeled. The reduction in mold counts occurred up to 10 minutes of treatment. The selected treatment was applied to the blueberry samples inoculated with the conidia of the two most resistant molds (in vivo tests: Aspergillus niger and Arthrinium phaeospermun). UV-C radiation (2,4 kJ m-2, 10 minutes) slightly increased the pH value without significantly modifying the soluble solids content, firmness, and color of blueberries. Treatment with UV-C increased the concentration of total phenols (13%) and the antioxidant capacity of blueberries (8%) compared to the untreated sample. It is essential to identify the contaminating microflora to correctly apply the treatment. The UV-C selected dose maintained the attributes related to sensory quality, increasing the content of phenolic compounds, and the antioxidant capacity of blueberries.