The introduction of a high yielding and good quality Eksotika II
papaya hybrid has gained popularity in domestic as well as export
markets. However, the short storage life limits the export of papaya
in refrigerated sea containers. Air freight is expensive and
shipping in refrigerated containers and modified atmosphere packaging
cannot yet offer sufficient storage life without the use of fungicides.
Moreover, prolonged storage at low temperatures may
damage the fruit physiologically (Maharaj & Sankat, 1990). If these
limitations are minimised, the farmers and exporters of papaya
fruit can earn maximum profits and capture a larger share of the
world market. Alternative methods that prolong the postharvest
storage life of papaya during shipping are required.