The effect of passive modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on postharvest shelf-life of
green chillies was studied. Different types of polymeric packaging films such as microporous,
low density polyethylene (PE-LD), polyolefin and anti-fog films were used for MAP of
green chillies. The respiration rate of the chillies varied significantly ( p < 0.05) among the
control and modified atmosphere packed samples during storage at 8 1 8C (RH 85–95%).
The anti-fog film packed chillies showed low respiration rates (19 mg CO2 kg/h) by delaying
the progress in senescence. The physico-chemical characteristics of modified atmosphere
packed and control chillies also showed significant ( p < 0.05) changes in terms of physiological
loss in weight, firmness, skin colour and ascorbic acid content. An increase in total
phenolic content was observed in chillies, whereas a decrease in total antioxidant activity
and capsaicin content was observed with progress in senescence during storage at 8 1 8C.