Packaging, post harvest treatments, storage and protection of aonla and their role in health care: An overview

Abstract

Aonla (Emblica officinalis Geartn) king of arid fruits popularly known as 'Indian gooseberry' is a small sized minor subtropical fruit that grows widely in North India. India ranks first in the world in area and production. It is considered as 'Wonder fruit for health' because of its unique qualities. It is a rich source of vitamin C. It is a perishable fruit and therefore it is necessary to extend its shelf life by adopting good post harvest management practices. Post harvest loses are the major constraints which discourage farmers to go for aonla cultivation. The extension of shelf life may be possible by checking the rate of transpiration, respiration and by checking microbial infection. Different chemicals like waxol, Ca (NO3)2, CCC, carbendazim, GA3, borax, kinetin and packaging materials like nylon net, perforated PE bags, ventilated CFB boxes, gunny bags, wooden crates etc., can be used for prolong the storage life of fruit. Refrigerated storage also helps in enhancing the storage life of fruit. There are so many products like aonla squash, candy, jam and chutney prepared from fruit and it also has the quality to prevent the disease like skin disease, hair falling, blood pressure and some other diseases. © 2014 Academic Journals Inc.