The effects of silicon biostimulant treatment and active modified atmosphere packaging on the quality and shelf life of strawberry (cv. Elsanta) fruit

Silicon (Si) biostimulant application to strawberry plants during growth has potential to boost fruit yield, diameter, weight, quality and shelf life. Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) has gained attention from strawberry and other horticultural crops producers, for its role in extending the shelf life of fresh produce. Strawberry packaging in an atmosphere with high carbon dioxide levels at low temperatures could prolong their shelf life and preserve the quality of strawberry fruit. In this study, fruit from strawberry plants grown in a glasshouse under i) control (using a standard commercial crop fertilizer programme + plant protection programme) and ii) silicon (Si)-based biostimulant treatment (standard fertilizer + Si drench application at rate 0.5 L/ha) were used. The impact of active MAP technology and commercial packaging format packaged using (tray sealer) was compared. The gaseous composition of 10% O 2 , 15% CO 2 and 75% N 2 was used for MAP. The changes in gaseous composition (oxygen and carbon dioxide) inside the package and fruit quality parameters (i.e. total soluble solid, color, and electrolyte leakage) were monitored at 3 d interval over a 16 d storage period, with temperature held consistent at 4 °C. A significant variation (p < 0.0001) in the gaseous composition was observed for all the packaging treatments. Electrolyte leakage was observed to be higher for commercial packaged fruit on the 12 d of storage irrespective of preharvest treatment. Color (L∗, a∗, b∗, ΔE and Chroma) value showed a significant difference (P < 0.0001) with the main and interaction effect for packaging treatment and storage days. Results show that preharvest application of silicon-based biostimulant had no significant effect on strawberry fruit quality during storage under either commercial or MAP. However, MAP significantly extended the shelf life of strawberries, maintaining quality for up to 16 d. Implementing these approaches can improve postharvest handling and minimize losses in strawberry during storage at retail and in home use. • Silicon (Si)-based biostimulant application had no significant effect on strawberry quality. • MAP extended strawberry shelf life to 16 days by reducing leakage and colour loss. • Si application and MAP, when combined, support sustainable postharvest loss reduction.