Carbohydrate and acid contents of Gala apples and Bartlett pears from regular and controlled atmosphere storage

Gala apples and Bartlett pears were harvested over two crop seasons at different maturities and growing sources then stored in refrigerated storage alone and in controlled atmosphere storage (1% O(2) plus 1% CO(2) or 2% O(2) plus 3% CO(2)). Before and after storage of 45 or 90 days, the juice from the fruit was examined for carbohydrate and acid compositions and contents. For Gala apples, the type and length of storage had no significant effect on juice carbohydrate and acid contents and compositions, whereas the time of harvest greatly influenced both parameters. Storage atmosphere did not affect the carbohydrate and acid contents and compositions of Bartlett pear juice; however, the source of the fruit and subsequent amount of ripening did appear to significantly cause changes in the same parameters. The carbohydrate and acid compositions and contents of Gala apple juice were within the compositional range for worldwide apple juice. Bartlett pear juice contained significantly greater concentrations of citric acid than shown in previously published studies.