Storage performance of savoy beet (Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis) in different growing seasons.

In order to improve shelf-life of savoy beet, effects of various storage and packaging conditions on moisture, beta-carotene, ascorbic acid and chlorophyll contents were determined. Beets of cv. Pusa Jyoti were stored open or packaged in polyethylene bags in a well ventilated room (max. temp. 31.5C), a cool chamber (max. temp. 23C) or a walk-in cooler (max. temp. 8.5C). Changes in savoy beet were determined after 2 days in storage, for summer and winter storage conditions. Results showed that beta-carotene, ascorbic acid and chlorophyll contents decreased in both seasons but these changes were faster in summer, when the shelf life was 4 days, than in winter, when it was 6 days. Packaging the beet in plastics appeared to improve shelf-life, especially for beet harvested in winter.