Methods for preserving fresh fruit and product thereof

US5939117A · kind A · utility

Assignees

• Mantrose-Haeuser Co., Inc. · US
• Department of Agriculture · US

Inventors

• Chao Chen · Shrewsbury, US
• Thomas A. Trezza · Dallas, US
• Dominic Wong · Corona, US
• Wayne M. Camirand · Albany, US
• Attila E. Pavlath · Walnut Creek, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 11, 1997
• Grant date: Aug 17, 1999
• Expiry date: Aug 11, 2017

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02A40/90
• WIPO field: Food chemistry
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Methods of preserving fresh fruit with fresh fruit preservatives which extend the shelf life of fresh fruit particularly fresh cut fruit, are provided. The fresh fruit preservative preserves the texture, flavor, appearance, crispness, and color of the fresh fruit, particularly the exposed skin of the fresh fruit. The method includes the following steps: providing a solution of fruit preservative comprising: water, calcium ions; and ascorbate ions, wherein the calcium ion and ascorbate ions are present in a ion ratio of preferably from about 1.5:1 to about 2.5:1; and, applying said fruit preservative to the fruit. Preferably the fruit is then stored at a temperature which will not freeze the fruit; temperatures of -6.degree. C. have been found not to freeze the apples. Preferably the fruit is stored at temperatures of between about -7.degree. C. to room temperature, about 20.degree. C., more preferably about -2.degree. to about 7.degree. C., most preferably from about 2.degree. C. to about 5.degree. C. The invention also relates to fresh fruits preserved with the fresh fruit preservatives.