Sensory modifications were evaluated in carrots cv Nantes lightly processed in two kinds of cut (grated and sliced) during the storage under refrigeration. Fresh cut carrots were packed in polyethylene tereftalato (PET) boxes and stored at 7ºC for 14 days. The carrot's appearance, color, aroma, flavor and texture were evaluated weekly. To obtain the frequency of consumption and preference of kind of cut, samples were offered to people to try. During the storage of both kinds of cut, a reduction in scores for appearance and color occurred, while flavor and texture scores were improved. Fresh cut carrots in the grated form presented better color and appearance than the fresh cut in the sliced form. However, flavor and texture were better in carrots cut in the sliced form. The grated carrots are the most indicated for consumption because appearance is the attribute that causes most impact to consumers, besides the color. The frequency of consumption of fresh cut carrots is increasing gradually and, regarding people's preference for kind of cut, the consumers opted for grated carrot because of the larger practicability and versatility in use.
Daucus carota; quality; slicing; storage-life
