Controlled atmosphere cold storage, also known as air conditioned storehouse, is a method of fruit and vegetable preservation.

In the appropriate low temperature conditions, controlled atmosphere storage creates the best storage conditions for fruits and vegetables by adjusting the gas composition and relative humidity, carbon dioxide concentration, oxygen concentration and ethylene concentration of the storage environment.

The effect of controlled atmosphere storage lies in the following aspects: low oxygen storage (the general oxygen content is l % -5%) and the appropriate concentration of carbon dioxide effectively inhibit the respiration of the fruits and vegetables, reducing the loss of nutrients. The low oxygen and proper carbon dioxide concentration also inhibits the breeding of pathogens to prevent the occurrence of certain diseases. The controlled atmosphere storage also increases the relative humidity in the storage environment to reduce the transpiration of fruits and vegetables, achieving long-term preservation.

Compared with ordinary cold storages, controlled atmosphere storage usually extends the fruits and vegetables storage period by 0.5-1 times. After being taken out of the controlled atmosphere storage, fruits and vegetables maintain a "lag effect" or dormant period for an extended length of time. The shelf time of the fruits and vegetables can be extended 21 to 28 days, and it is 3 to 4 times as long as ordinary cold storage.