Postharvest treatments to reduce chilling injury symptoms in stored ...

1.1 Introduction:
I. GENERAL INTRODUCTION
According to FAO, United Nation report 2002, the world agricultural growth has
slowed down from an average 2.2 per cent annually over the past 30 years to 1.5 per cent
year until 2030. On the other hand, the world population growth will be growing at an
average of 1.1 per cent a year up to 2030, compared to 1.7 per cent annually over the past
30 years. This will put an increased pressure on the land to produce more food to fulfill
the requirement of the growing population all over the world. Fruit and vegetable
production is lower than grain production, however, they contribute important nutrients to
the diet, including vitamins A and C, folic acid, potassium, and dietary fiber (Mukherjee,
1997). In 1970, vegetables were considered as one of the leading sources for vitamin C
and were contributing 50 % of the supply, while fruits contributed 39 %. By 1994, fruits
contribution of vitamin C increased contributing 44 % of the international supply. Fruits
contribute 12 % of the folic acid, a nutrient that is known to reduce the risk of heart
disease and cancer. They also contribute 12 % of potassium, a mineral with beneficial
effects on blood pressure (Putnam and Allshouse, 1997). Consumers tend to prefer fresh
fruits and vegetables rather than processed or canned food and postharvest losses of fresh
fruits and vegetables are one of the major problem of the food industry (Borrud et al.,
1996). Surveys have revealed that a substantial portion of the harvest is wasted annually
due to improper harvesting and postharvest practices, disease and lack of facilities and
technology to extend storage life. Postharvest losses have been estimated in developed
countries to range from 5-25 % while in developing countries it is 20-50 %, depending
upon the commodity (Kader, 1992). This continues to cause heavy losses in revenue for
the grower, wholesaler, retailers and exporters.
Prior to consumption it is extremely important for local and export markets to
reduce the losses and retain high quality and freshness of harvested products.
Furthermore, the export of fruits to distant markets needs special technology that ensures
that the consumer receives a high quality product and value for their money. Mangoes
(Mangifera indica L.) are considered as one of the choice subtropical fruit crops of the
world due to their attractive color, delicious taste and nutritive value. The problem, which
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