Abstract: The effect of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) with systems consisting of 10% O2 and different concentrations of CO2 (10%－50%) on major quality and physiological indices of fresh-cut iceberg lettuce stored at 4 ℃ was investigated. The results showed that high CO2 concentrations could increase the membrane permeability of iceberg lettuce. Significantly, 10% O2 ＋30% CO2 inhibited the activities of PPO, POD and CAT, delayed tissue aging and browning, and maintained the contents of chlorophyll, vitamin C and sugar content well. The sensory evaluation results showed that the fresh-cut iceberg lettuce exposed to 10% O2 ＋30% CO2 still had commercial value after 15 days of storage.

Key words: modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), fresh-cut, iceberg lettuce, storage quality, physiology