Abstract: In order to preserve the color and antioxidant activity of fresh-cut yam and extend its shelf life, the effects of different types of coating treatment (chitosan alone, carrageenan alone, sodium alginate alone, and all of them) on browning degree and antioxidant activity of fresh-cut yam during storage at 5 ℃ were investigated. The results showed that a mixture of 1.57% chitosan, 0.9% carrageenan and 1.55% sodium alginate could inhibit PPO activity and reduce the browning degree of fresh-cut yam during storage, and prevent polyphenol oxidation and increase the total antioxidant activity of fresh-cut yam during the late period of storage.

Key words: fresh-cut yam, coating, browning, antioxidant activity