Author(s): K. DHALI, N. BASAK, AND S. BHATTACHARYA

Abstract: In this study potato tubers (Solanum tuberosum L. var Kufri Jyoti) were exposed to radiation dosages of 150 gray (Gy) and 500 gray (Gy) to study the post-harvest quality parameters of this horticultural crop. The treated tubers were stored at two different temperatures (60 C and 150 C) along with storage under ambient condition. The changes in the various physical quality parameters as well as biochemical changes were determined two months after storage. From this study, it was found that radiation may act as an effective tool for sprouting inhibition. 500 gray (Gy) radiation was found to be detrimental for the tubers as discolouration of the tubers kept under ambient condition was observed within two weeks of the treatment. Considerable weight loss, significant loss in firmness, change in specific gravity and loss of ascorbic acid along with rapid discoloration was observed. The tubers exposed to radiation and subsequently stored under a lower temperature range (60 C) showed improved physical quality aspects compared to the tubers stored at an elevated temperature (150 C) or ambient conditions but resulted in higher sugar accumulation due to ‘cold induced sweetening’ phenomena. Thus storage at 15O C may be recommended for retaining the physical quality.

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