Gala (and clones) – benefits
- SmartFreshTM application consistently improved retention of firmness of air-stored fruit and virtually eliminated softening in CA-stored fruit.
- SmartFreshTM application reduced weight loss in air-stored fruit.
- SmartFreshTM suppresses the development of skin greasiness.
- Some preliminary investigation in AHDB Project TF 221 indicated potentially improved flavours from higher levels of oxygen in the store (3% CO2 + 2% O2).
- Further investigation continues in Project TF 225 ‘Developing practical strategies to improve quality and storability of UK apples’. This research aims to identify best practice that needs to be adopted to extend the market window opportunities for English Gala.
Gala (and clones) – constraints / limitations
- No adverse effects of SmartFreshTM application on CA-stored (<1% CO2 + 1.2% O2) fruit.
- SmartFreshTM application aggravated core flush and flesh breakdown in fruits stored in air at 0-0.5oC for 180 days. The storage of SmartFreshTM-treated fruit in refrigerated air should be terminated in January.