The use of absorbent sachets in the quality and post-harvest conservation of ‘BRS Fascínio’ peaches

Active packaging is an innovative technology that allows direct interaction between the product and the environment, extending its lifespan. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of sachets containing moisture-absorbing substances (zeolite), ethylene (potassium permanganate), antimicrobial (silver nitrate), and oxygen (iron) on the preservation of the post-harvest quality of ‘Fascínio’ peaches stored at refrigerated and ambient temperature. The treatments consisted of the application of 1 gram of the absorbing substances (zeolite, potassium permanganate, silver nitrate, and iron) packed in non-woven fabric (TNT) sachets. These sachets were then inserted into the center of expanded polystyrene packages containing the fruit. Refrigerated storage was carried out at 7 °C with assessments at 0, 9, 18, and 27 days, while evaluations at ambient temperature were carried out at 0, 3, 6, and 9 days. The results indicate that sachets containing potassium permanganate and iron proved to be an efficient strategy for preserving the post-harvest quality of peaches. Both favored the preservation of peel color, flesh firmness and a reduction in changes in soluble solids, total titratable acidity (TTA), hydrogenionic potential (pH), ratio (SS/ATT) and ascorbic acid, extending the shelf life of the fruit for up to nine days at room temperature and 27 days under refrigeration at 7 °C. Therefore, the use of these sachets represents a viable alternative for the transportation and marketing of peaches, contributing to a reduction in post-harvest losses.