Abstract: Preservative compositions using GRAS (generally recognized as safe) ingredients are incorporated into a commercially viable three-stage preservation process for mushrooms. The process includes contacting the mushrooms with a high pH solution for microbial reduction; a neutralizing step to return the pH of the mushrooms to their about physiological pH; and an anti-browning step that incorporates suitable antioxidants and ancillary compounds to maintain the color of the finished product. Specifically disclosed is a method for preserving fresh mushrooms comprising the steps of exposing the mushrooms to a aqueous anti-microbial solution with a pH of 10.5-11.5; treating the mushrooms with a pH neutralizing buffer consisting of an organic acid and a salt of an organic acid and then subjecting the mushrooms to a combination of an anti-browning agent, a source of calcium and a chelating agent.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for inhibiting enzymatic browning in raw, peeled potatoes comprising dipping the potatoes in a solution of heated organic acids (45-65.degree. C.), followed by treatment in a weakly basic solution to neutralize the potato surface and treatment with reducing agents, followed by storage in modified atmosphere packaging. The process may comprise two stages, in which sodium erythorbate in solution (approximate pH 7.8) is used both as the neutralizing agent and the reducing agent. Alternatively, the process may comprise three stages, in which a solution of the salt of an organic acid (such as sodium citrate) is used to neutralize the potato surface following the heated acid dip, and a third stage containing the reducing agents sodium erythorbate and erythorbic acid are combined at a final pH of greater than 4.3. Chelating agents or sequestrants may be added to the solutions.