4. Conclusions
The effect of sodium hypochlorite (100 ppm solution) and
modified atmosphere packaging (5% O2, 10% CO2 and 85% N2)
on fresh-cut cilantros was studied for 25 days at 5 8C. These
two treatments can be complimentary to each other.
However, sodium hypochlorite dipping treatment was better
than MAP treatment. MAP alone was not effective in
preserving quality of fresh-cut cilantro. Results showed
that, chemical dip fresh-cut cilantros kept in modified
atmosphere help to improve the surface color, and to
maintain firmness and reduced microbial count. Hence,
use of chemical dip in combination with MAP has been
shown to be effective in extending shelf life of fresh-cut
cilantro up to 25 days at 5 8C.