An integrated treatment of basil oil (Ocimum basilicum) and alum with modified atmosphere to control crown rot disease in Embul banana

Abstract

A study was undertaken with the objective of developing environmental friendly integrated treatment strategies for controlling crown rot disease in Embul banana. The fungicidal potential of 1% alum (sodium aluminium sulphate) was observed in vitro. Findings indicate that alum+basil oil (0.16% or 0.20% v/v) treated 80, 85, 90 day mature Embul banana fruits were relatively free from crown rot dis-ease after subjecting to modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and storage at optimum temperature. Crown rot disease severity of 85-day mature and vacuum packed 1% alum (w/v) washed banana was lower and comparable to carbendazim (bavistin) treatment. After ripening, there was no significant difference in physico-chemical properties (titratable acidity, total soluble solids, pH, fruit firmness) of all treated fruits compared to the control. Sensory properties were slightly affected as compared to un-treated fruits. MAP and vaccum packaging in combination with alum and/ or basil oil spray treatments at 12-140C could extend the storage life of Embul banana upto 32 days which could be recommended for sea shipment.