Pectinesterase Activity in Controlled Atmosphere Stored Avocados1

Abstract

Pectinesterase (PE) activity was determined in avocado fruit ( Persea americana Mill) at various times during controlled atmosphere storage (CA) and subsequent softening. A reduction in the initial softening time as related to storage temperature or ethylene accumulation in the CA unit was associated with a decrease in the PE activity of firm fruit at time of removal from storage. It is suggested that PE activity in fruit could be used to monitor a change in softening time during CA storage.