Effect of ultraviolet radiation on the quality parameters of table grape varieties during long-term storage

This study evaluates the storage potential of the Moldova and Shokoladnyi table grape varieties from the commercial vineyards of the Massandra JSC. The study was conducted in 2023–2024. The implementation of an environmentally friendly storage alternative as a means of improving storage technology is investigated. Experiments were performed in a refrigeration chamber. The control group was treated with SO₂, while the experimental group was exposed to a bactericidal ultraviolet (UV) emitter. The application of UV radiation resulted in a lower mass concentration of sugars in the studied grape varieties at the end of storage, being on average 6.3 % lower than those in the control varieties. Conversely, the overall sensory evaluation score was 12.8 % higher. The use of UV treatment contributed to a reduction in the activity of monophenol monooxygenase, which was on average 21.6 % lower relative to the control. Furthermore, the extent of grape bunch spoilage was on average 12.8 % lower, and the percentage of disease development was 14.8 % lower than in the control. The studied samples exhibited minimal values of weight loss in the bunches, which were 7.8 % lower compared to the control. The results of mathematical processing indicate a strong and significant correlation between the weight loss of the average grape bunch and the degree of infection by mold rot; the share of their influence on weight loss averaged 79 %. Upon completion of long-term storage, the following pathogenic microorganisms were isolated from the grapes of the studied batches: Penicillium expansum L., Penicillium discolor F. & S., Penicillium digitatum (Pers) S., Penicillium spp. L., Penicillium notatum T., Aspergillus niger T., Aspergillus oryzae C., and Rhizopus spp. E. UV radiation treatment shows promise for maintaining the primary commercial quality parameters of grape berries and suppressing the activity of pathogenic microorganisms during long-term storage.

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