The succinate oxidation capacities of mitochondria isolated from mango fruits (Mangifera indica L.) stored at 4, 8, 12, and 20 C were investigated during storage. In normally ripening fruits (at 12 and 20 C) the oxidative capacities increased during the first 10 days and then decreased slowly. At lower temperatures (4 and 8 C), the fruits showed chilling injury symptoms, after about 10 days of storage and the succinate oxidation capacities of mitochondria decreased progressively. Plots of succinate oxidation capacities as against storage temperature showed a marked discontinuity between 12 and 8 C, only when chilling injury was observed on fruits stored at low temperature.The variations of mitochondrial fatty acid composition during the storage of fruits at different temperatures were also investigated. A marked decrease of the molar ratio palmitoleic acid/palmitic acid, the predominant fatty acids in mitochondrial lipids, was observed to accompany both the succinate oxidation decrease and the induction of chilling injury.

In this study we have considered the evolution of texture as determined by a puncture test and of the intensity of fungal rot in mangoes. Fruits were placed at room temperatures after 3 wk storage at 4' or 12°C under various humidity conditions. Observed differences in hardness (INSTRON) of the skin and the flesh appeared related to fruit ripening. Inducing chilling-injury on fruits initially stored at 4°C accelerated softening after fruits were transferred at 20°C. Gradual humidification of ambient atmosphere reduced this phenomenon, especially by limiting water losses, thus maintaining cell turgescence. Susceptibility to fungal rotting increased with fruit softening. Fungi proliferation seemed more rapid on chilling-injured batches. A clear relationship was evidenced between water losses and fungal development.

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A simple system was developed for generating atmospheres of controlled relative humidities applicable to the experimental storage of fruits or vegetables. It is based on the mixing of two air streams in adequate proportions, one consisting of dry air and the other being air saturated with water vapors. Stable air flows and relative humidities were obtained in a storage experiment of 21 days duration.