Ethylene is highly effective in fruit ripening ,it enhances the respiration rate during ripening of fruits !!!

Artificial Ripening of Fruits by Ethylene

Ethylene gas is a plant hormone that promotes fruit ripening. Artificial ripening of fruits is the process of inducing the ripening of fruits before they are naturally ripe. Ethylene is a commonly used agent for this purpose. The following are the reasons why ethylene is used for the artificial ripening of fruits:

1. Ethylene production in fruits

Most fruits naturally produce ethylene gas as they ripen. This gas triggers the ripening process by breaking down the cell walls, converting starches to sugars, and softening the fruit. By exposing fruits to ethylene gas, the ripening process can be accelerated.

2. Ethylene source

Ethylene can be sourced from natural gas or as a by-product of petroleum refining. It is also produced by plants as a response to stress. This makes it an affordable and readily available agent for artificial ripening of fruits.

3. Ethylene application

Ethylene can be applied to fruits in several ways, including:

- Gas chambers: Fruits are exposed to ethylene gas in a sealed chamber.
- Ethylene generators: Ethylene gas is generated and released into an enclosed space where fruits are stored.
- Sprays: Ethylene is sprayed directly onto fruits.

4. Fruits that can be ripened artificially

Not all fruits can be ripened artificially using ethylene gas. Fruits that are climacteric in nature, meaning they continue to ripen after they are harvested, can be artificially ripened. These fruits include bananas, mangoes, avocados, papayas, and tomatoes. Non-climacteric fruits, such as grapes, citrus, and berries, do not ripen after they are harvested and cannot be artificially ripened using ethylene.

Conclusion

Ethylene is a cost-effective and readily available agent for the artificial ripening of fruits. It is sourced from natural gas or as a by-product of petroleum refining. Ethylene can be applied to fruits in several ways, including gas chambers, ethylene generators, and sprays. Climacteric fruits, which continue to ripen after they are harvested, can be artificially ripened using ethylene gas.