The influence of hot air and ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the sensory quality of tomatoes after storage was
compared. Two tomato varieties (“Zouk” and “Camry”) were harvested in turning ripening stage and
treated with hot air (60 C) or UV radiation. Fruits were stored for 14 days in semi-controlled conditions
(temperature range 14.4–19.9 C, relative humidity range 35–55%), while non-treated tomatoes stored
under the same conditions were used as a control. Sensory evaluation of samples was performed by
trained panel, and instrumental measurements of color and texture were also carried out. Both
postharvest treatments were effective in preventing tomato fruit spoilage. Hot air treatment resulted in
better quality of tomato fruits in terms of sensory properties after two weeks of storage, but the UV
irradiation resulted in favorable effects in terms of extension of tomato shelf life because it led to delayed
ripening of tomato.