Study of microbial load for storage and optimization conditions of Malta (Citrus Sinensis) using response surface methodology

Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the optimum storage conditions of malta fruits that gives minimum microbial load or growth and maximum shelf life retained value.Scavenger (3-5 g), polythene thickness (75-125 gauge) and fungicide concentration (75-200 ppm) were the factors investigated.Experiments were designed according to Box-Behnken design with these three factors, including central points.For each response, a second-order polynomial model was developed using multiple linear regression analysis.Applying desirability function method, optimum storage conditions were found to be 5 g scavenger, 125-gauge polythene thickness and 200 ppm fungicide concentration.All the parameters significantly affect the response.It is observed that all factors are suitable to reduce the microbial load which is helpful for extending the shelf life of malta fruits up to four months at ambient condition.Box Benkhen can be successfully applied for modeling and optimizing the storage parameters.Applying desirability function method, optimum storage conditions were found to be 5 g scavenger, 125-gauge polythene thickness and 200 ppm fungicide concentration.