Integrated application of nitric oxide and modified atmosphere packaging to improve quality retention of button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus)

► NO maintained a high level of firmness, delayed browning and cap opening. ► NO promoted the accumulation of phenolics, ascorbic acid. ► NO reduced the increases in both O2- production rate and H2O2 content. ► NO inhibited the activity of PPO, and increased the antioxidant enzymes activities.