The effect of harvest moment, packaging and CA on Regina cherries

Sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) is one of the most highly valued fruits by consumers due to its outstanding organoleptic characteristics, which can deteriorate rapidly after harvest or within a period of more than 4 weeks. 

This study evaluated the effect of two controlled atmospheres (CA) with 5% O₂ + 12% CO₂ and 7% O₂ + 15% CO₂ on Regina cv. cherries. Regina is the cultivar with which Chile can reach China customers.

The cherries were harvested at three different maturity stages based on color (C1: pale red, C2: red, and C3: dark red) and stored for up to 42 days. The cherries were packaged in perforated bags and stored in chambers that provided the controlled atmosphere conditions. 

Modified atmosphere (MA) bags were used as controls. Fruit quality was assessed after 35 and 42 days at 0°C, followed by 3 days at 10°C, evaluating parameters such as firmness, general condition, and pedicel dehydration.

The results

The use of perforated bags combined with controlled atmospheres achieved relative humidity levels similar to those of MA bags, resulting in minimal weight loss (less than 1.2%).

Pale red fruit stored under CA (5% O₂ + 12% CO₂) maintained 92% pedicel freshness after 35 days. Both MA and CA conditions effectively preserved high firmness (450 gf mm⁻¹) after 42 days, particularly in C1 fruits. 

However, after 3 days at 10°C, the gas concentrations inside MA bags approached critical limits, while perforated bags, maintained conditions closer to normal air levels.

Therefore, the combination of perforated bags and controlled atmosphere effectively enhances the freshness and firmness of Regina cherries after prolonged storage (at least 42 days).

Source

Controlled atmospheres improve postharvest quality of Regina cherries depending on maturity stages 
Victor Escalona, Rodrigo Neira, Violeta Muñoz, Matías Piña, 
Joaquín Villegas, Fernanda Hernández & Daniel Guerrero
CAMA 2025, XIV International Conference on Controlled and Modified Atmosphere Research, held in Wenatchee, Washington, USA, May 18-22, 2025, https://cama2025.com/

The picture shows Victor Escalona during CAMA 2025