The effects of 1-methylcyclopropene treatment on the shelf life and quality of cherry tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum var. cerasiforme) fruit

The use of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) to extend the shelf life of cherry tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum var. cerasiforme) was investigated. Higher concentrations of 1-MCP delayed the ethylene induced climacteric peaks in mature green (MG) and breaker (BR) fruits. Thirteen days after treatment, control fruits were 55% as firm as fruit treated with 0.11 mu L L-1 1-MCP. The initiation of fruit softening, chlorophyll degradation and accumulation of lycopene and carotenoids was delayed in treated fruits. Higher 1-MCP concentrations inhibited the accumulation of lycopene and carotene such that the colour of the fruit did not reach that of control fruit. Treatment of MG cherry tomatoes with 1-MCP enhanced shelf life optimally, while treatment of BR fruits was beneficial where full colour and high content of lycopene and carotenoids is important. Differentiation of the different stages of ripening before application of 1-MCP is needed in order to succeed in accomplishing different postharvest objectives.