Electron-beam ionizing radiation stress effects on mango fruit (Mangifera indica L.) antioxidant constituents before and during postharvest storage.

The effect of electron-beam ionizing radiation stress and storage on mango fruit antioxidant compounds was evaluated in a dose range of 1-3.1 kGy. Phenolic high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) profiles were not affected right after the irradiation process; however, an increase in flavonol constituents was observed after 18 days in storage (3.1 kGy). Total phenolics by the Folin Ciocalteu method and antioxidant capacity (ORAC) were not affected, while reduced ascorbic acid decreased approximately 50-54% during storage (>/=1.5 kGy). No major changes in carotenoid HPLC profiles indicated a delay in ripening of irradiated mangoes (1-3.1 kGy) compared to nonirradiated fruits. However, irradiation dose >/=1.5 kGy induced flesh pitting due to localized tissue death. A summary of the potential roles of reactive oxygen species generated by the irradiation stress on different antioxidant constituents of mango fruits is presented.