Physicochemical quality, bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) from Brazilian semi-arid during cold storage

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the postharvest storage potential, quality, and antioxidant properties of pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) subjected to cool storage conditions (10 ± 1°C and 90 ± 5% relative humidity). A completely randomized design was employed, with storage duration as the treatment factor (0, 7, 14, 22, and 32 days) and four replicates. Analyses were conducted on the fruits, including physical, physicochemical, and chemical assessments, as well as the determination of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity using the ABTS method. Throughout the storage period under refrigeration, the pitaya maintained a favorable appearance and exhibited consistent sugar content (8.06% total and 7.55% reducing sugars). Furthermore, it demonstrated an increased soluble solids/titratable acidity (SS/TA) ratio at the conclusion of the storage period (78.11). The fruits remained commercially acceptable for up to 32 days, despite observed changes in fresh mass loss, external appearance, firmness, titratable acidity, and pigment concentrations. At the end of this period, they retained high rind firmness (40.03 N), pulp firmness (3.89 N), and substantial levels of betacyanins (58.00 mg per 100 g) and betaxanthins (91.97 mg per 100 g). These findings provide valuable insights for enhancing the shelf life and implementing effective measures to preserve the quality of pitaya fruit from the Brazilian semi-arid during cold storage and along the cold chain logistics.