Synergistic effects of 1-methylcyclopropene and ethylene absorbents under cushion and modified atmosphere packaging on quality of red-fleshed pitaya (Hylocereus costaricensis Britton & Rose)
摘要
This study investigated the effects of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and potassium permanganate-based ethylene absorbent (EA), applied individually and in combination, on the postharvest quality of red-fleshed pitaya (Hylocereus costaricensis) during transportation and storage. Fruits were treated with 1 μL/L 1-MCP before transportation and EA during storage, and stored at 8 °C under cushion packaging (corrugated carton and air column roll) and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP; 70% O2 + 20% CO2 + 10% N2). Quality parameters including decay index, respiration rate, weight loss, firmness, soluble solids content, titratable acidity, and microstructural integrity were evaluated. Results showed that EA alone had limited preservation effects, while 1-MCP delayed ripening but could promote deterioration at later stages. The combined treatment (1-MCP + EA) significantly reduced decay, maintained firmness and biochemical quality, and preserved tissue structure more effectively than individual treatments. When integrated with cushion and MAP systems at low temperature, the combined approach extended shelf life by at least six days. These findings offer a promising postharvest strategy to enhance the storability and marketability of red-fleshed pitaya, especially for long-distance transport of tropical fruits.