Study of the quality and antioxidant properties of tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under different postharvest and dehydration conditions.

Abstract

Objective: To study the effect of storage temperatures and dehydration conditions (solar and convective drying (SD, CD), on the quality, physicochemical parameters and antioxidant properties of tomato fruits. Methodology: The physicochemical characteristics pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids (°Bx) and color parameters (L, a and b), were evaluated. The lycopene, carotenoids and antioxidant activity percentages retention of tomatoes fruits stored at 7 and 22 ° C for 5 days and subjected to SD (T 67°C and luminescence of 685 lum/sqf) and CD (T 70°C, flow rates 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 m/s), were analyzed. Results: The fruits reached humidities of 17 and 15% for SD and CD. The parameters pH,° Bx, L, a, b were highest with both storage T and CD (1.5 m/s). The value of the carotenoids was higher in fruits stored at 7 ° C and subjected to CD (1 and 1.5 m/s) and SD with values of 83.85, 85.98 and 99.43%, respectively. The CD (0.5 m/s) and SD improved lycopene (94.37 and 95.14%) and the antioxidant activity with values of 73.06 and 97.21%. Implications: The application of solar dehydration depends on luminescence condition, however it is inexpensive and environmentally friendly alternative.

Conclusions: The results derived in a viable alternative for the conservation and commercialization of tomato fruits in rural communities.