Abstract:

Samples of vacuum packaged silkworm chrysalis were irradiated using 60Co gamma ray at 0, 3, and 6 kGy and
stored at 4 ℃ for 60 days to explore changes in sensory indicators and quality of silkworm chrysalis with different gamma
irradiation doses and storage times (0, 30, and 60 days). The results showed that the chroma value, acidity value, fat content
and microbial quantity of silkworm chrysalis significantly decreased after irradiation, whereas the hardness, chewiness and
peroxide value significantly increased. No significant change in sensory evaluation, protein content or springiness was found.
The chroma value and microbial quantity decreased significantly with increasing irradiation dose during the entire storage
period, while hardness, chewiness, and fat increased. Peroxide value increased firstly and then decreased with increasing
irradiation dose. A lower increment in peroxide value was found when compared to the control. At higher irradiation dose,
peroxide value increased relatively slowly, but no significant change in the acidity value was seen. The sterilization effect of
6 kGy irradiation on silkworm chrysalis was better. It was concluded that irradiation could improve safely and effectively the
storage quality of silkworm chrysalis, resulting in prolonged preservation period.

Key words: irradiation, silkworm chrysalis, storage, quality characteri