Extending the storage life of "Mukunuwanna" using a low cost evaporative cooling system
Loading...
Date
2002
Authors
de Silva, A. S. K.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Peradeniya
Abstract
Mukunuwanna (Alternanthera sessile) is a highly perishable leafy green mainly grown in the wet zone of Sri Lanka Due to its inherent nutritional quality it has high export potential and local demand. Incorrect handling practices of Mukunuwanna restricts the availability of this product more than a day in the domestic market. Conventional cold storage conditions at 10 °C and 90 % RH help to keep the commodity more than 10 days by retaining the overall quality. Low cost storage method (an on farm storage structure) is very much important to farmers to keep Mukunuwanna more than 5 days. Yellowing is the major problem during the storage in an evaporative cooler (26 —28 ° C and 98% RH). Ethylene scrubber (KMnO₄, impregnated brick crystals) reduced the yellowing of Mukunuwanna in the evaporative cooler.
Description
Keywords
Alternanthera Sessile