Effect of Irradiation on Discoloration, Phenols and Lipids of Potatoes

The effect of two irradiation doses, 10 and 100 krad, on discoloration, phenolic content and lipid content of Katahdin and Russet Burbank potatoes was studied. Potatoes were stored 1, 4 and 26 wk at 5°C and 20°C following irradiation. Irradiation increased discoloration and phenols and decreased crude lipids and the phospholipids. Potatoes receiving 100 krad dose discolored more, were higher in phenols, and lower in lipids than those given 10 krad dose. Potatoes stored at 5°C discolored more and were higher in phenols and in lipids than those stored at 20°C. Increased storage at both temperatures resulted in greater discoloration, increased phenolic content and decreased lipids content.