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Some Radiation-Induced Changes in Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Journal Article · · Advances in Chemistry Series
 [1];  [1]
  1. Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY (United States); New York State Agricultural Experiment Station, Geneva, NY (United States)
The effects of radiation upon fresh fruits and vegetables include not only the immediate and direct influence upon chemical constitution, but also the subsequent indirect consequences of physiological and biochemical alteration. The most obvious detrimental response to irradiation is softening associated with degradation of pectin and cellulose. Some radiation-induced changes in physiology associated with storage longevity have been studied. Ethylene synthesis in apples is altered by radiation. Kilorad treatment of fruit and vegetable tissue causes stimulation of respiration followed by return to near-normal rates. Investigations into the biochemical causes for this in carrots indicate little alteration of either pentose-phosphate or Embden-Meyerhof glucose metabolism. Although little effect on pyruvate decarboxylation was found, there was a marked variation in acetate metabolism.
Research Organization:
Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY (United States); New York State Agricultural Experiment Station, Geneva, NY (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
US Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)
NSA Number:
NSA-21-009036
OSTI ID:
4449742
Report Number(s):
CONF-650902--37; NYO--3274-4
Journal Information:
Advances in Chemistry Series, Journal Name: Advances in Chemistry Series Vol. 65; ISSN 0065-2393
Publisher:
American Chemical Society (ACS)Copyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English