The objective of this research was to adapt the technology of peeling of 'Pera' sweet orange for the use of hydrothermal treatment, and to evaluate its influence in the respiratory activity and physicochemical, microbiologic and sensorial characteristics of fruits. Peeling time, marketable fruits yield and internal fruit temperature during the treatment were also evaluated. The hydrothermal treatment consisted of water-bath fruits at 50°C for 10, 15, 20, 25 e 30 minutes. The fruits were peeled by first opening cut the peduncle region with a knife and then, the flavedo and albedo were removed, manually. Fruits with no hydrothermal treatment were considerate as control. The fruits were stored at 5°C by six days. Hydrothermal treatment caused changes in respiratory activity just in first hours after processing. Internal fruit temperature after 30 minutes of treatment reached up to 35°C. There were no changes in the physicochemical and microbiologic characteristics of the fruits. The treatment did not change the flavor and improved the appearance. The treatment decreased in until 78% the peeling time of the treated fruits and it increased marketable fruits yield. In conclusion, the hydrothermal treatment from 10 to 30 minutes at 50°C can be used as peeling technique for 'Pera' sweet orange.
fresh-cut; heat; quality; Citrus sinensis
