Abstract:

Fresh-cut Lentinus edodes were packaged in modified atmosphere with argon and stored at 4 ℃. The effects of
different concentrations of argon on the quality of fresh L. edodes were studied by measuring respiration rate, weight loss
rate, soluble solid content, hardness, and whiteness during the storage period. Results indicated that 90% of argon could
slightly inhibit the respiration rate and maintain the soluble solid content. Argon could maintain the high hardness value and
whiteness value; the higher the concentration of argon, the higher the values. Argon had no significant effect on the weight
loss rate of fresh-cut L. edodes when the environmental temperature was 4 ℃ and the relative humidity was 90%.

Key words: fresh-cut L. edodes, argon, modified atmosphere packaging, preservation