RT info:eu-repo/semantics/article T1 Improvement in texture using calcium lactate and heat-shock treatments for stored ready-to-eat carrots A1 Martín-Diana, A.B. A1 Frías, J.M. A1 Barat, J.M. A1 Henehan, G.T.M. A1 Barry-Ryan, C. A1 Rico Bargues, Daniel AB The use of calcium lactate solutions has been shown to be a healthy alternative to chlorine washing in order to maintain the shelf-life of fresh-cut products. The aim of this research was to analyse the effects of calcium lactate (15 g L 1) treatment at 25 C and 50 C (heatshock) on the textural properties of sliced carrots and to compare those with the chlorine treatment (120 mg L 1) widely used in industry.Several direct and indirect markers of textural changes in carrots during storage were used: Instron textural analysis, Cryo-SEM and optical microscopic, sensory analysis, pectin methylesterase (PME) activity, calcium content and water activity. Samples treated with calcium lactate maintained texture significantly (p < 0.05) better than samples treated with chlorine throughout storage. Calcium lactatetreatment produced a reduction in the water activity in sliced carrots and a higher firmness (Instron analysis) than chlorine treatment. In addition, combined use of heat-shock and calcium lactate treatment increased PME activity significantly when compared to the other treatments, results that were confirmed by sensory analysis. Cryo-SEM analyses showed that combined heat-shock and calcium lactate treatment was more effective in maintaining the turgor of cortex tissue cells and reduced the extent of lignification at cutting-edge areas. The use of calcium lactate combined with heat-shock is a promising washing method for fresh-cut carrots in order to preserve their texture and improve their nutritional value, avoiding the use of chlorine washing. PB Elsevier SN 0260-8774 YR 2007 FD 2007 LK https://uvadoc.uva.es/handle/10324/74711 UL https://uvadoc.uva.es/handle/10324/74711 LA spa NO Journal of Food Engineering, Mayo 2006, vol. 79, p. 1196-1206. DS UVaDOC RD 05-feb-2025