Effect of active and passive modified atmosphere packaging on extending the postharvest life of Gypsophila paniculata L. (Bristol Fairy) flowers

Gypsophila paniculata L. 'Bristol Fairy' flowers have a high economic value in the floriculture industry because they are used as cut flowers, decorations and potted plants. Their lifespan is critical in determining quality, market value, and customer satisfaction. This study, carried out at the Agricultural Research Centre (ARC), Giza, Egypt, looked into the effects of active and passive modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the postharvest quality of cut Gypsophila flowers during the 2022 and 2023 growing seasons. The following compositions of gases were examined: passive-MAP (78.97 N2, 0.03 CO2, and 21% O2), MAP1 (90 N2, 5 CO2, and 5% O2), MAP2 (85 N2, 10 CO2, and 5% O2), MAP3 (80 N2, 15 CO2, and 5% O2) and control (unpacked cut flowers). The findings demonstrated that MAP2 and polyethene bags significantly enhanced water absorption, fresh weight, carbohydrate production, and appearance quality. The average storage life of Gypsophila flowers under passive MAP was 19.07 days, with the longest being 29.42 days with MAP2 and polyethylene bags.