Changes of glucosinolates in mixed fresh-cut broccoli and cauliflower florets in modified atmosphere packaging

Glucosinolates of broccoli and cauliflower florets were assessed to determine the effect of modified-atmosphere packaging on postharvest glucosinolate dynamics in mixed florets of Brassica vegetables. Mixed-packaged broccoli and cauliflower florets stored in food trays sealed with 2 different microperforated biaxial-oriented polypropylene films for up to 7 d at 8 degrees C were analyzed. Both applied modified atmospheres (1% O(2)+ 21% CO(2); 8% O(2)+ 14% CO(2)) maintained aliphatic glucosinolates in cauliflower florets, whereas in broccoli florets, the aliphatic glucosinolate concentration decreased slightly in each modified atmosphere. In addition, total indole glucosinolate concentration for both broccoli and cauliflower florets was maintained, and even increased in cauliflower florets at 1% O(2)+ 21% CO(2) due to rising neoglucobrassicin concentration. Thus, to simultaneously maintain glucosinolates and external appearance as well as to prevent off-odor, a modified atmosphere of 1% O(2)+ 21% CO(2) provides a suitable environment for storage of this Brassica floret medley for up to 7 d at 8 degrees C.