The technology of ethylene control: use and removal in post-harvest handling of horticultural commodities

A meeting of the Post-Harvest Biology Group of the Association of Applied Biologists on 26 April 1984 discussed the significance of ethylene in the post-harvest handling of horticultural commodities. The natural production of ethylene by crops and the risks of accidental exposure were surveyed. The effects of ethylene on plants were described in terms of ability to respond (responsiveness) and the relationship between response and concentration of ethylene (sensitivity). Sensitivity is related to the properties of ethylene receptors and may be common to all plant tissues. The varying responses to ethylene of fruits, vegetables and ornamentals were described. The limited studies of production and action of ethylene under temperature and atmosphere conditions of normal post-harvest handling were reviewed. Methods of applying and removing ethylene were evaluated in terms of their practicality and applicability. The methodology of ethylene measurement was briefly considered. The potential for further research on post-harvest significance of ethylene was discussed.