Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Tomato Shelf Life: A Proximate Analysis Study

Abstract

The study investigated the effect of gamma irradiation on tomato shelf life: a proximate analysis study. Four
tomato samples were exposed to gamma irradiation (Co-60 irradiator, 220 Gamma cell Excel) using doses
0.40kGy, 0.70kGy and 1.00kGy. The irradiated tomato was dried under sun to dry for proximate elemental
and vitamin determination. The results show that gamma irradiation at 0.40 to 1.0kGy was effective in
enhancing the shelf life of tomatoes. The treatment resulted in significant decrease in microbial load and
decay of tomatoes. Additionally, findings of the study also reveal that no huge nutrient losses were
observed by radiation processing. Based on these results, it was recommended that tomatoes should be
irradiated at matured but unripe stage with an optimum dosage of gamma irradiation of 1.00KGy to extend
shelf life and reduce post-harvest losses.