Effect of different postharvest coating on colour and anthocyanin content of pomegranate fruit cv. Malas-e-Saveh during cold storage

Pomegranate aril and peel fruit colour are important factors affect fruit quality and consumer preference. In this study, the effects of three coating treatments (1 and 2% chitosan, Xedasol M14 and Britex Ti wax) investigated on the aril colour parameters and anthocyanins content of pomegranate fruit cv. Malas-e-Saveh during 120 days storage at 4.5˚C. Above traits were measured at harvest time and 40, 80 and 120 days after storage. The results appeared diglucosides and –mono glucosides derivatives of cyanidin, delphinidin and pelargonidin in the pomegranate juice at harvest time. The profile of individual anthocyanins pomegranate juice was not affected by coating treatments and storage time. Up to 40 days storage, L* and chroma parameters reduced while in this time hue angle and total anthocyanin content increased. It is reflected that the anthocyanin synthesis continues in harvested fruit. Then, up to the end of storage the L* and chroma parameters gradually reduced and hue angle and total anthocyanin content increased that the level of reducing in the treated fruits were lower than that untreated fruits. The results showed that the diglucoside anthocyanins were more stable than the monoglucosides. Overall, xedasol and 2% chitosan coating treatments were more effective in maintaining of the colour parameters and anthocyanin content.