PENGUKURAN LAJU RESPIRASI BERBAGAI PRODUK HORTIKULTURA

Abstract

This study measures the respiration rate of horticultural products, specifically sweet corn and tomatoes, to determine their postharvest shelf life. Fruits and vegetables are considered "alive" after harvest because they continue to undergo respiration, which involves the absorption of oxygen (O2) and the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) to maintain metabolic activity. The respiration rate is a good index for predicting shelf life, as a higher rate leads to more rapid deterioration. The objectives of this study were to understand the equipment, methods, and calculations for measuring respiration rates. The closed-system method was used for the experiment, with samples placed in sealed jars and measured with a gas analyzer. Measurements were taken for sweet corn at 20, 40, and 60 minutes, and for tomatoes at 60, 90, and 120 minutes. The results showed different trends for each commodity. Sweet corn, classified as a commodity with a very high respiration rate, showed CO2 respiration rates above 60 ml/kg hour. The decrease in CO2 concentration over time could be due to damaged mitochondria, which disrupts metabolic reactions. In contrast, tomatoes, which are classified as having a medium respiration rate, showed a drastic decrease in CO2 levels, with values well.