Quality and shelf-life of fresh cut carrot slices as affected by slicing method

The effects of slicing method on the quality and storage-life of modified atmosphere packaged carrot slices were determined using microscopy, sensory evaluation, microbial counts and a range of physical and chemical tests. Slicing caused physical damage, physiological stress and enhanced microbial growth. The severity of these effects were in the order of blunt machine blade > sharp machine blade > razor blade. These findings provide insights into the magnitude and basis of slicing effects and also confirm the importance of gentle processing and the use of a sharp blade.