Abstract:
The objective of this work was to evaluate cold storage periods and postharvest longevity of the seedless table grape 'BRS Vitória' subjected to the application of the disease-resistance inducer acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM). Bunches were treated or not with 1% ASM, placed individually in plastic clamshell trays and stored in a cold chamber at 2±1ºC, at a high relative humidity, for three periods (30, 45, and 60 days), followed by a 5-day period of shelf life in plastic clamshells, at 22±2ºC. After each storage period, gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) incidence was evaluated, and the physicochemical analysis was performed. A completely randomized design, with four replicates, was used in two 2x3 factorial arrangements: one evaluating ASM application and cold storage periods; and another, ASM and cold storage + shelf-life periods. ASM did not change the physicochemical characteristics of the bunches, and the incidence of gray mold was lower than 1% in all treatments. Water loss from bunches increased with storage periods. Even without ASM application, 'BRS Vitória' grape can preserve its postharvest quality for up to 60 days of cold storage, plus five days of shelf life in plastic clamshells.
Index terms:
Botrytis cinerea; Vitis; disease-resistance inducer; gray mold incidence; postharvest conservation; shelf life