Abstract
The 'Harlikar' apple, known for its larger fruit and rich flavor, faces challenges in post-harvest storage. Our study compared the storage characteristics of 'Harlikar' apples at three different harvest stages and found that stage II showed superior storage characteristics. At stage II, the application of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) proved particularly beneficial, resulting in the slowest decline in apple firmness. By the end of cold storage, apples treated with 1-MCP retained a firmness of 56N, which was superior when compared to the other two stages. Moreover, 1-MCP treatment was effective in maintaining the soluble solid content of the apples. 1-MCP treatment at stage II significantly delayed cell wall degradation by reducing protopectin and cellulose content. Additionally, the treatment also decreased softening-related enzyme activities, and related gene expression. 1-MCP also influenced key aroma compounds, 2-hexenal and hexyl acetate. These findings suggest that stage II with 1-MCP is optimal for storage.
Published Version
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