Title: Effective dosing of different 1-Methlylcyclopropene formulations to extend the shelf life of 'Hass' avocado (Persea americana) fruit

Authors: Edwin Ademba; Jane Ambuko; Margaret J. Hutchinson

Addresses: Department of Plant Science and Crop Protection, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya ' Department of Plant Science and Crop Protection, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya ' Department of Plant Science and Crop Protection, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract: This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of two 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) formulations (Smarttab powder and Inbox sachet) applied at various dosing ranges 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 ppm to prolong the shelf life of 'Hass' avocado. Fruits were harvested at two maturity stages based on Dry Matter (DM) content: stage 1 (20-22%) and stage 2 (25-30%). After 1-MCP treatment, the fruits were kept at ambient conditions (24 ± 1°C, 60 ± 5% RH) to ripen alongside untreated control fruits. Samples of 6 fruits per treatments batch were taken at 3-day intervals to evaluate ethylene and respiration rates, weight loss, colour change, firmness, overall shelf life, and DM content. 1-MCP treatments significantly (P < 0.05) delayed the rate of progression of ripening-related parameters. Overall, 1-MCP treatments significantly extended the shelf life of avocado fruits by 15 and 12 days, stage 1 and 2 fruits respectively. Therefore, both formulations of 1-MCP can be recommended for use in 'Hass' avocados.

Keywords: avocado; ethylene; 1-MCP; 1-Methylcyclopropene; post-harvest; shelf life; maturity stage; Smarttab powder; Inbox sachet.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPTI.2024.144950

International Journal of Postharvest Technology and Innovation, 2024 Vol.9 No.4, pp.273 - 290

Received: 06 Feb 2024
Accepted: 13 Oct 2024
Published online: 13 Mar 2025 *

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