EFFECT OF DIFFERENT PACKAGING FILMS ON SHELF LIFE AND QUALITY OF PEAR FRUITS UNDER SUPER MARKET CONDITIONS

Pear fruits cv. ‘Patharnakh’ were harvested at physiological mature stage, packed in paper moulded tray and tightly wrapped with different packaging films viz. Low density polyethylene (LDPE), High density poly ethylene ( HDPE),and Shrink. The film-packed fruits andcontrol (without film packaging) were stored under super-market conditions i.e. 20-21°C and 85-90% RH and analyzed for various physico-chemical parameters after every 7 days interval.Shrink film proved to be most effective in extending the storage life of pear fruits up to three weeks and maintained superior quality as indicated by lower weight loss, desirable fruit firmness,total soluble solids, total sugars, acidity, and higher organoleptic score.