This study assessed the effect of the recently-introduced Life+ (ILIP, Valsamoggia, Italy) active packaging system on the postharvest quality of sweet cherries and strawberries. This system uses Equilibrium Modified Atmosphere Packaging (EMAP) to achieve specific intra-package conditions with three synergistic elements: an unvented and anti-mist heat sealable container, an active (naturally-antimicrobial) pad, and a heat-sealed, laser micro-perforated film of a specified gas permeability. Post-packaging quality parameters were monitored for 10 (strawberries) and 15 days (cherries): headspace gas concentration, weight loss, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, pH, disease incidence, and sensory quality. Results showed that use of the Life+ system delayed postharvest senescence by maintaining fruit color, acidity, and vitamin C content, and decreasing fruit weight loss and decay. The use of EMAP in sweet cherry resulted in enhanced sensory qualities compared to traditional perforated containers. The results suggest that the Life+ system leads to better sensory properties and improved shelf-life for strawberries and sweet cherries.
Keywords: Life+ system; active pad; container; equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging; shelf life; storage.