Fruit Size and Placement in Packaging Affect Firmness-Related Quality Attributes of Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) Fruit

Abstract

The longer the storage period of muskmelon fruit, the more the lower part of the fruit that is in contact with the packaging box softens compared to the other parts due to the weakness of the blossom end of the fruit. This study was conducted to identify the effect of fruit weight and placement position in the packaging box on firmness-related quality attributes of 'Earl's Talent' muskmelon cultivar during its shelf life. Fruit were harvested and graded based on their weight into small (1.0-1.4 kg), medium (1.4-1.8 kg), and large (>1.8 kg). After grading, we removed the vine from the stem end and covered the stem scar with plaster to reduce water loss and avoid contamination. Fruit were then placed in the box downward and sideways, compared to fruit with the vine attached and stem end facing upward as a control. Based on the results, the order of importance of fruit placement position in the packaging box could be, downward > sideways > upward for large, medium, and small fruit, respectively. For heavier muskmelon fruit, it is recommended to place the fruit in the box downward for storage and distribution at ambient temperature.