Abstract
The coconut scale, Aspidiotus destructor Signoret (Hemipteran: Diaspididae) is a regulated pest of tropical fruits and can be controlled through gamma irradiation for quarantine security. In the present study, mango fruits cv. Langra were exposed to gamma irradiation within the range of Phytosanitary irradiation treatments in the dose range of 100–250 Gy and the effect was monitored on the quality of irradiated fruits. Post-irradiated mangoes were stored at a temperature of 29.3 ± 1.4 and RH 42 ± 2.6% for 8 days to determine physiochemical analysis of irradiated and unirradiated mango fruits. Results showed stability in weight loss and firmness with irradiation as well and total soluble solids were also lower in irradiated fruits than control. Titrable acidity, vitamin C, and pH values were significantly higher in irradiated fruits as compared to control at all storage levels. Sensory evaluation through odor, appearance, taste, texture, and overall acceptability decreased with storage duration; however, irradiated fruits were acceptable to the consumer for up to 8 days while un-irradiated fruits lost more than 50% of their quality at the same period. It is concluded that irradiations have no adverse effects on fruit quality, but rather improve consumer’s acceptability and may be used safely as phytosanitary control measures in mango and other fresh fruits for export purposes.