The effect of storage time on quality attributes of refrigerated fresh-cut mints (Mentha×piperita and M. spicata) was studied. Atmosphere composition, respiratory activity, weight loss, surface colour, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, browning potential, total phenols, flavonoids, radical-scavenging activity, ascorbic acid and essential oil yield and composition were analysed. Respiratory activity of peppermint and spearmint samples diminished moderately (42% and 28%, respectively) after 21days at 0°C. A slight modification of the internal atmosphere was achieved. Surface colour, chlorophyll, carotenoid and antioxidant compounds remained almost constant. The yield of essential oil did not change or it showed an apparent increase after 21days at 0°C, depending on plant growth stage. The characteristic flavour components of peppermint (menthone and menthol) increased, while the contents of the main constituents of spearmint essential oil showed minor variations after storage. The conditions assayed for packaging and storing fresh-cut mints were adequate to achieve a relatively long shelf life and they retained their antioxidant properties.
Keywords: Antioxidant compounds; Culinary herbs; Essential oils; Mentha spp.; Monoterpenoids; Refrigerated storage.
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