Rice husk-methyl salicylate (RH-MeSA) sachet for maintaining the quality of ‘Namwa’ bananas during stimulated export

A pilot study was undertaken to assess the effectiveness of controlled methyl salicylate (MeSA) release from rice husk-methyl salicylate (RH-MeSA) through a non-woven polypropylene (PP) sachet for delaying ripening of ‘Namwa’ bananas. The RH-MeSA in sachets of 0 (control), 75 g/5 sachets, and 150 g/10 sachets were tested with five banana hands (7 ± 0.5 kg) packed in polyethylene (PE) bags and stored in corrugated boxes. Controlled release MeSA through RH-MeSA at 150 g/10 sachets was the most successful in preserving the color, weight loss, firmness, and total soluble solids (TSS) of ‘Namwa’ bananas for a period of 21 days at 13 °C. Additionally, it reduced ethylene production, respiration rate, and the activities of polygalacturonate (PG) and pectin-methyl esterase (PME). Pearson’s correlation exhibited the relationship between visual appearance and postharvest quality changes of ‘Namwa’ bananas as influenced by the RH-MeSA sachet. The results suggested that the application of RH-MeSA sachets was effective in delaying the ripening of ‘Namwa’ bananas. Consequently, the RH-MeSA sachets may be able to extend the shelf life of bananas until they reach the consumer, which can also increase the fruit’s value and reduce postharvest losses.