EFFECT OF MORINGA (MORINGA OLEIFERA) LEAF POWDER ON PRESERVATION OF FRESH TOMATO (SOLANUM LYCORPERSICUML.) FRUITS UNDER STORAGE
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the effect of Moringa leaf powder on the preservation of fresh tomato fruits across three varieties: Roma, UTC and Local (Tomato Jos). The research focused on postharvest quality parameters including rot incidence, visual quality and shelf life, over a 24-day storage period. The study employed four treatments: T1 (0g, control), T2 (25 g Moringa powder), T3 (50 g Moringa powder) and T4 (75 g Moringa powder), with three replications per treatment. Data were collected at 3-day intervals (days 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24). The experimental design employed was Factorial Design (FD). Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using SPSS version 25 software and the Fisher's Least Significant Difference (FLSD) were used to separate the means at 5% level of significance. The major findings are as follows: Moringa-treated fruits exhibited significantly lower rot incidence compared to the control throughout storage (p < 0.05; LSD values confirmed statistical differences). Higher concentrations (50 g and 75 g) were more effective, with Roma variety showing the lowest susceptibility. Shelf life increased with Moringa powder concentration. Treated fruits, particularly Roma, maintained marketable quality up to 24 days, whereas untreated fruits deteriorated rapidly. ANOVA confirmed treatment, variety and storage time significantly influenced shelf life. Firmness declined over time in all fruits, but Moringa-treated fruits retained significantly higher firmness. The effect was strongest at 75 g Moringa powder, indicating a dose-dependent preservation effect. Treated fruits maintained better color, appearance, and surface integrity than controls. Roma variety consistently scored higher in visual quality, followed by UTC and Local varieties. Overall, the findings demonstrate that Moringa leaf powder is effective in suppressing rot, preserving visual quality and extending shelf life, with the magnitude of effect increasing with concentration.
Keywords: Effect, Moringa (Moringa oleifera), Preservation, Storage, Tomato (Solanum lycorpersicumL.).
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.