Evaluation of packaging materials for preserving post-harvest quality of spinach under ambient storage in middle Gujarat

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is a highly perishable leafy vegetable that undergoes rapid post-harvest deterioration due to moisture loss and tissue senescence. This study evaluated the influence of different packaging materials on the storage stability of spinach under ambient conditions. Five treatments were considered: non-perforated low-density polyethylene (LDPE), non-perforated polypropylene (PP), perforated LDPE, perforated PP, and an unpackaged control. Fresh spinach samples (200 g) were stored for three days and analyzed for physiological loss in weight (PLW), dimensional shrinkage (leaf length and width), colour attributes (L*, a*, b*), and sensory quality. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed among treatments. The control exhibited the highest deterioration with PLW of 65.60%, shrinkage in length (54.12%) and width (64.94%), and lowest sensory scores. Perforated films moderately reduced losses but were less effective due to higher vapor exchange. Non-perforated LDPE was most effective, recording the lowest PLW (1.06%), minimal reductions in leaf length (11.94%) and width (10.11%), and superior sensory acceptability. Colour values declined over time across all treatments, although packaging type had no significant effect. The results demonstrate that non-perforated LDPE provides the most effective barrier properties for extending the short-term preserving post-harvest quality of spinach during ambient storage.