Influence of ethylene and 1-methylcyclopropene treatment on the storage quality of 'Hongro' apples.

Abstract

Effects of postharvest ethylene and 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatments on the physiological metabolism and quality of 'Hongro' apples (Malus domestica) were investigated. Fruit were harvested at commercial maturity, treated with 100 L.L ethylene for 24 hours at 10 or 1 L.L 1-MCP for 24 hours at 10, and then stored at 0 and 20 for 50 days, respectively. Ethylene evolution was completely inhibited by 1-MCP treatment at both storage temperatures. In contrast, 1-MCP treatment effects on respiration were distinct only in apples stored at 20. Ethylene treatment tended to increase ethylene evolution and respiration, especially during 20 storage. Rises in the ethylene evolution and respiration rates appeared clearly in control and ethylene-treated apples, while not detectable in 1-MCP treated apples during 50-day storage. Storage at 0 also effectively reduced ethylene evolution and respiration while delaying the ethylene and respiration peak times. Effects of 1-MCP on fruit quality were significant for maintaining flesh firmness and overall taste while reducing surface greasiness during storage. Overall data indicated that postharvest 1-MCP application could maintain fruit quality during storage at ambient temperature. However, potential of 1-MCP treatment may be limited to 'Hongro' apples programmed to be stored at 0 for short period.