Effect of Different Packaging Methods on the Postharvest Shelf Life and Quality of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.)

Packaging plays a vital role in extending the postharvest shelf life and maintaining the quality of fresh produce, especially fruits like dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.), which are highly sensitive to environmental factors. This study investigated the effects of three packaging methods—stretch wrap, polyethylene plastic (PE), and ziplock packaging—on the physical and chemical quality attributes of dragon fruit stored at 7 ± 2°C for 7 days. Parameters such as weight loss, skin color, firmness, pH, soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), and vitamin C content were evaluated. Results revealed that ziplock packaging was the most effective in reducing weight loss (0.40%), maintaining vivid skin color, and preserving fruit firmness (1.8 N). Polyethylene packaging exhibited the highest pH (6.08) and vitamin C content (8.0 mg/100g), while all treatments showed similar TA levels (0.3%). These findings indicate that packaging type significantly influences the shelf life and quality of dragon fruit, with ziplock packaging being optimal for maintaining physical attributes and polyethylene packaging for chemical stability.