The suitability of the strawberry variety Chandler to the freezing process and the influence of pre-freezing treatments were evaluated. Objective measurements of texture, pH, total tritable acidity, soluble solids, ascorbic acid and drip loss were taken in the raw material as well as in the final product. The flavor, texture and color of the final product were subjectively evaluated. The preparation of the fruits for freezing consisted of normal cleaning procedures, cutting in halves and pre-freezing treatments involving the use of sacarose, calcium salt, pectin and heat treatment. The samples were packed in 450 grams(74,6 X 95,2mm) cans, with epoxi internal coat, which were seammed and frozen at -25°C. The final product was stored for 45 days and evaluated after thawing at 5°C during 12 hours. The results pointed out the strawberry variety Chandler as having suitable characteristics to the freezing process; the addition of calcium salt and pectin proved to be effective for reducing the drip loss and the ascorbic acid loss with no changes in the flavor and color of the product.
strawberry; treatments; freezing
