Question

The system in which the recommended respiration rate of fruit is established, monitored and maintained throughout the storage period is called -

• A. Modified atmosphere storage
• B. Control atmosphere storage
• C. Chilled atmosphere storage
• D. Hypobaric storage

Hint:

CAS is extensively used for the long-term seasonal storage of apples and pears.
By maintaining oxygen levels very low (typically \(1.5\text{--}2\%\)) and carbon dioxide levels around \(1\text{--}3\%\), the respiration of apples is put to "sleep," allowing them to be stored in perfect crisp condition for up to a full year.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Fresh fruits and vegetables are living tissues that continue to respire post-harvest, consuming oxygen (\(\text{O}_2\)) and producing carbon dioxide (\(\text{CO}_2\)) and moisture.
Controlling this respiration rate is key to extending their shelf-life.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Controlled Atmosphere Storage (CAS) (noted as "Control atmosphere storage" in the paper): This is an advanced storage system where the concentrations of \(\text{O}_2\), \(\text{CO}_2\), and nitrogen, along with temperature and humidity, are continuously monitored, adjusted, and precisely maintained at specific, constant levels throughout the entire storage period using scrubbers and gas injection systems.
- Modified Atmosphere Storage (MAS): The gas composition is modified initially, or depends purely on the passive respiration of the produce and package permeability, without active continuous monitoring and feedback control.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The system where the rate is actively monitored and maintained is Control atmosphere storage, which corresponds to option (B).