Abstract
Quality and biochemical changes of 'Hindi-Besennara' mangos in response to postharvest dipping in ethalonic extract of propolis (EEP) at 2.5, 3.5 or 4.5% were studied during two weeks of shelf life (SL) at 20 +/- 2 degrees C and 60-70% RH. EEP at medium and high rates showed lower weight loss and decay percentages than control during SL. EPP at all rates retained higher membrane stability index (MSI) of fruit peel and higher pulp firmness especially at the high rate than control during SL. Moreover, EPP at all rates maintained lower total soluble solids (TSS) and at the high rate retained higher titratable acidity (TA) concentrations than control during SL. Both total phenols and flavonoids concentrations of fruit peel were higher after one week of SL than initials but decreased thereafter to a level close to initials. In this respect, EPP at high rate retained higher total phenols and flavonoids concentrations than other treatments. Vitamin C concentration of fruit pulp increased during SL in EEP treatments compared to initial but decreased thereafter to a level close to initial. EEP at all rates retained higher vitamin C concentration than control. Compared to initial, free radical scavenging capacity (FRSC) of peel decreased after one week followed by a sharp increase after two weeks and was not affected by the applied treatments. Relations of such biochemical changes with peroxidase (POD) and alpha-amylase activities were discussed. In conclusion, EEP treatments at 4.5% retained quality of 'Hindi-Besennara' mangos during SL and being suggested as natural alternative to synthetic chemicals.