Abstract: The effect of modified atmosphere package (MAP) with high oxygen at different concentrations and high carbon dioxide (20%) on the sensory quality, lignin content, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and total phenol content of green asparagus spears during storage at (4 ± 1)℃ were studied using ambient atmosphere as a control. Results indicated that package with oxygen at concentrations of over 60% and 20% carbon dioxide could delay the deterioration of sensory quality, the decline of total soluble solid and total polyphenol content, keep the activities of SOD and CAT and inhibit the increase of PPO activity. The green asparagus packaged in 80% O2＋20% CO2 showed the best storage quality. As a conclusion, the atmospheric condition will have potential application prospects in delaying the postharvest senescence of green asparagus.

Key words: green asparagus, high oxygen treatment, high carbon dioxide, modified atmosphere package (MAP), senescence