Reducing Superficial Scald of Apples and Pear with Naturally Occurring Triterpenoid Compounds

Superficial scald is a physiological skin disorder of apples and pears that develops in cold storage and that often increases in severity after the fruit is removed. It is thought to be associated with the accumulation of farnesene in the epithelial tissue. Currently used methods of controlling scald are diphenylamine (DPA) drenches, and controlled atmosphere (CA) to a limited extent. In order to expand the methods available to control scald, we have been investigating the potential of a number of naturally occurring compounds applied to the fruit surface by drenching or by topical application. Fruit were treated either by wiping the fruit surface with technical-grade material and then removing the excess, drenching whole fruit in aqueous emulsions, or drenching fruit in combinations of heat plus emulsion. After treatment, the fruit was air-dried for 30 min and then placed either in regular or CA storage for 6 months, after which time they were placed in a dark room at 68F for 7 days. Scald was evaluated and fruit condition assessed. Results from 3 years indicate farnesene and squalene reduce scald in apples and pears.