Cucumbers
Recommended
Conventional cooling
Dynamic Cooling
Pre-cooling
De-greening
Ripening
General Tips for Cucumbers
| Storage temperature | Relative Humidity (RH) | Duration | Pre-cooling | Sensitivity to ethylene | Ethylene Production | Controlled Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Storage temperature:
11° -12° C
|
Relative Humidity (RH):
90%
|
Duration:
2-4 weeks
|
Pre-cooling:
Air cooling
|
Sensitivity to ethylene:
High
|
Ethylene Production:
Low
|
Controlled Atmosphere:
Not recommended
|
Enhanced Cold Storage Chamber: A flexible system that allows the existing refrigeration chamber and its equipment to be used for light pre-cooling, followed by storage. |
Optimal Controlled Atmosphere Composition: A CA mixture of 3%–5% oxygen (O₂) and 10% carbon dioxide (CO₂) helps delay yellowing and slow down the onset of decay for several days. |
Ozone: Installation of an ozone generator is recommended to reduce microbial load. |
Ethylene Removal: Use ethylene absorption systems to prevent premature yellowing and deterioration. |
IMPORTANT TIPS
- Monitor and manage carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels.
- High CO₂ concentrations support better preservation of cucumbers.
- Avoid storage temperatures below 10°C, as chilling injury may occur.
- Store away from ethylene-producing fruits and vegetables.
- Use ethylene absorbers and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) to maintain quality.
- Pre-cool at 12°C for 2–4 hours using air cooling immediately after harvest.
- Avoid using ice for retail display, as direct contact with moisture damages the surface.