Effect of storage temperature on the quality of kepok banana (Musa paradisiaca formatypica)

Abstract

Kepok bananas are processed bananas that have ABB genotype, the letter B indicates that banana kepok has a stronger resistance to disease and chilling injury in cold temperatures storage. Storage at cold temperatures can extend the shelf life of bananas, because cold temperatures can slow down the respiration and enzymatic processes. The purpose of this study is to observe the effect of storage temperature on quality and shelf life, and to determine optimum storage temperature. The method used is storage temperature at room, 15^oC and 10^oC until the banana is damaged. The parameters observed were respiration patterns, weight loss, hardness, fruit skin color, total acid, vitamin C, pH, and total soluble solids. The results showed that bananas stored at cold temperatures (10^oC and 15^oC) can last up to 20 days while at room temperature only lasts for 10 days. Kepok bananas stored at 10^oC have not shown symptoms of chilling injury.