Effects of controlled atmospheres on microbial spoilage, electrolyte leakage and sugar content of fresh ‘ready‐to‐use’ grated carrots

Summary The effects of controlled atmospheres (CO2 concentrations ranging from 0.03 to 40% and O2 concentrations ranging from 21 to 1%, measured in pack) were studied on fresh ‘ready‐to‐use’ grated carrots, stored at 10°C. High CO2 or low O2 conditions favour the growth of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on grated carrots, but not in a sterile carrot medium, and induce an increased potassium ion leakage. A 25% CO2 and 2% O2 atmosphere improves retention of sugars. Grated carrots were inoculated by a strain of Leuconostoc mesenteroides, which caused increased potassium ion leakage and exudation only under an atmosphere containing 40% CO2 and 10% O2. The origin of the spoilage of ‘ready‐to‐use’ grated carrots is discussed.