Establishing a Consumer Quality Index for Fresh Plums (Prunus salicina Lindell)

Plums are primarily marketed for fresh consumption, canning, freezing, jam and jelly. Unfortunately, plum consumption has remained steady or declined. Consumers complain about a lack of flavor quality but willing to pay higher quality. Thus, absence cold storage disorders the main barriers consumption. Plum cultivars sensitive gel breakdown, flesh browning ‘off flavors’. Consumer approval postharvest life controlled by genotype, attributes, harvest date proper handling. A consumer index (CQI) based on soluble solids concentration (SSC) minimum firmness is proposed maximize life. In most cases, late increases attributes. Our work industry experience demonstrated that using critical bruising thresholds (CBT) measured at acts as reliable predictor how safely maximum visual sensory tolerated well because their high tolerance damage, suitable temperature management selling within potential required maintain avoid beginning chilling injury. life, CQI SSC proposed. This article provides guidance this CQI, combined with handling techniques, such correct determination management, increase