Q. Fruits stored in a cold chamber exhibit longer storage life because
- exposure to sunlight is prevented
- concentration of carbon dioxide in the environment is increased
- rate of respiration is decreased
- there is an increase in humidity
Answer: (c) rate of respiration is decreased
Notes
- The shelf life of fruits and vegetables can be increased by keeping them in cold storage this results in a slower ripening process and fruits and vegetables remain fresh for a longer duration.
- Fruits when stored in a cold chamber exhibit a longer storage life because their rate of respiration is decreased. When fruit respires they release out ethylene which helps in ripening.
- Ethylene is also known as the ‘fruit-ripening hormone‘. Every fruit has a different level of ethylene production.
- The rate of ethylene production decreases when fruits are kept in cold storage. Thus, the shelf life of fruits increases.