Microbiological and visual quality of fresh-cut cabbage as affected by packaging treatments

Microbiological behavior of fresh-cut cabbage as affected by packaging treatments including high oxygen (MAP1: 70 kPa O₂+15 kPa CO₂/balanced N₂), low oxygen (MAP₂: 5 kPa O₂+15 kPa CO₂/balanced N₂), and moderate vacuum (MVP), in combination with gas permeable (LDPE) and barrier (Ny/PE) films, was investigated. Spoilage bacteria and pathogens were inoculated on shredded cabbage, and observed for viable cell counts during storage at 5°C. Overall population of the tested bacteria was noticeably reduced in MAP1 with Ny/PE, but was little influenced by MAP2. However, the inoculated bacteria in MVP with Ny/PE significantly increased or leveled off. In sensory evaluation, the barrier packages maintained better visual quality compared to the permeable. Results indicate that packages with high O₂ and CO₂ in the barrier film showed considerable microbial inhibition without deteriorating visual quality. Therefore, it can be applied as a promising tool to secure microbial safety of fresh-cut vegetables at refrigerated temperatures.