Influence of films of different permeability on ethylene synthesis and ripening of ma-packaged apricots

Abstract

The storage of apricot (Prunus armeniaca) at 10°C, wrapped in three plastic films of differing degrees of permeability to O2 and CO2, was studied. The metabolism of the fruit itself modifies the gaseous composition below the film. This reaches an equilibrium after 4 to 6 days, with final O2 and CO2 concentration depending on both the permeability of the film used and fruit respiration activity. In all cases ethylene production was inhibited by more than 75%, with the highest inhibition produced in the films of least permeability. This inhibition of ethylene synthesis was produced both at the ACC-synthase level and at the ethylene forming enzyme level. The variation of the atmosphere surrounding the fruit was shown to retard softening and preserve the sensory characteristics in optimum condition for consumption during longer periods than would be the case in an unaltered atmosphere. © 1993 Academic Press Limited.