ISHS Acta Horticulturae 116: Symposium on Postharvest Handling of Vegetables
EFFECTS OF LOW ETHYLENE LEVELS ON STORAGE OF CABBAGE |
| Authors: | J.R. Hicks, P.M. Ludford |
| Abstract:
The influence of prolonged exposure to low levels of ethylene upon storage of cabbage,Brassica oleracea L. cv. Hiderna, was investigated both in air and under controlled atmosphere (CA) conditions. Cabbage was stored in containers holding 2–3 heads at 0.6°C., and tested with air (± 1 ppm. ethylene) or with 5% CO2 and 2.5% O2 in N2 (CA ± 1 ppm. ethylene). Three replicate samples of 2–3 heads each were taken at time 0 (control), and after 1 to 6 months of storage. Outward appearance, dry weights, and weight changes during storage were noted. The stem apex was sampled for endogenous hormone analysis, and leaf samples were taken from two locations (inner and outer leaves) for analysis of sugars and organic acids. All samples were freeze dried. Ethylene had a definite detrimental effect on appearance of the cabbage when added to the air atmosphere, but little effect on CA. Similarly, weight loss on storage was greatest in air plus ethylene, as was the decrease in total sugars. The experiment was repeated in 1979–80, using cv. Bartola stored under air and CA ± 1 and 5 ppm. ethylene. | |
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