How is ethene used in the food industry, particularly for controlling fruit ripening during storage and transport?

Sourav PanNovember 12, 2024

Answered

Ethylene plays a crucial role in the food industry, particularly in controlling fruit ripening during storage and transport. Here’s how ethylene is utilized effectively:

1. Induction of Ripening

• Natural Ripening Process: Ethylene is a natural plant hormone that initiates and regulates the ripening process in many fruits. Fruits such as bananas, tomatoes, and apples produce ethylene as they mature, which triggers metabolic changes leading to ripening. This includes the conversion of starches to sugars, softening of the fruit, and color changes (e.g., the breakdown of chlorophyll).
• Artificial Ripening: In commercial settings, unripe fruits are often harvested and then treated with ethylene gas to induce ripening before they reach consumers. This process allows for longer transport times while ensuring that fruits are ripe and ready for sale upon arrival.

2. Controlled Atmosphere Storage

• Ethylene Management: During storage, managing ethylene levels is critical to prolonging shelf life and maintaining quality. High concentrations of ethylene can lead to premature ripening and spoilage. Therefore, controlled atmosphere storage facilities often employ ethylene scrubbers or ventilation systems to reduce ethylene concentration.
• Temperature and Humidity Control: Along with ethylene management, maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels in storage helps slow down the ripening process and extends the freshness of fruits .

3. Preharvest Treatments

• Ethephon Application: Ethephon is a chemical that releases ethylene when applied to plants. It is used preharvest to synchronize ripening in fruit crops, ensuring that fruits reach maturity at the same time for efficient harvesting . This technique can enhance marketability by providing uniformity in size and ripeness.

4. Postharvest Treatments

• 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP): This compound inhibits the action of ethylene by blocking its receptors in fruits, slowing down the ripening process and extending shelf life. It is particularly useful for fruits sensitive to ethylene-induced ripening, allowing for longer storage without loss of quality .
• Ripening Chambers: Specialized chambers can be used where ethylene concentration is carefully controlled to ensure optimal ripening conditions without excessive exposure that could lead to spoilage .

5. Quality Improvement

• Flavor and Aroma Development: Ethylene not only initiates ripening but also enhances flavor development by promoting the synthesis of volatile compounds responsible for fruit aroma . This is crucial for consumer acceptance and market value.