Influence of salicylic acid and potassium permanganate-coated zeolite nanoparticles on quality maintenance and storability extension of broccoli (Brassica olerasea var. italica plenk)

In this research the efficacy of salicylic acid (SA) at 2 levels (0 and 2 mmL-1) and potassium permanganate-coated zeolite nanoparticles at 2 levels (0 and 10 g) on physicochemical attributes and storage life of broccoli florets were evaluated. The samples were stored at 1°C and 90-95% relative humidity for 24 days. Samples were taken initially and at 4-day intervals during storage and to simulate market conditions they were placed at room temperature for 24 hr, and then qualitative and quantitative parameters such as weight loss, visual quality, ethylene, total soluble solid, titrable acidity, vitamin C, surface color, chlorophyll, total phenol and total antioxidant capacity, were measured. The results showed that SA treatment and potassium permanganate-coated zeolite nanoparticles and SA combined with potassium permanganate-coated zeolite nanoparticles had significant effect in the maintaining visual quality and quantitative and qualitative characters than control florets. Also, SA combined with potassium permanganate-coated zeolite nanoparticles showed the best effect in retaining of visual quality, preventing chlorophyll degradation and yellowing inhibition, as well as maintaining functional substances.