Minimal Processing and Modified Atmosphere Packaging Effects on Pigmentation of Pomegranate Seeds

The influence of different washings, temperatures, and packagings on anthocyanins of minimally processed pomegranate seeds was evaluated. No differences were found in anthocyanin composition after washing with different solutions, although a slight decrease in pigments occurred. Storage in perforated polypropylene bags preserved pigments and a slight increase in most anthocyanins occurred. During storage in modified atmospheres, anthocyanins increased at 1°C, but decreased at 8 and 4°C. The delphinidin derivatives were the most sensitive while cyanidin and pelargonidin derivatives were stable and increased slightly. The 3,5-diglucosides were more stable than 3-glucosides. Compared with storage at 1°C for 7 days in perforated OPP bags, unperforated OPP bags maintained the pigments better. However, stored an additional 4 days at 4°C to simulate domestic storage, they were better preserved in perforated films.