This study was conducted to investigate the effects of ethylene generator agent treatment on the quality of astringent persimmons 'Cheongdobansi' and to determine the methods of utilizing the ethylene generator agent and the optimal timing for its app...
This study was conducted to investigate the effects of ethylene generator agent treatment on the quality of astringent persimmons 'Cheongdobansi' and to determine the methods of utilizing the ethylene generator agent and the optimal timing for its application. The astringent persimmons used in this experiment were harvested from an orchard located in Cheongdo province, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea, on October 6, 2022.
The selected ‘Cheongdobansi’ persimmons after harvest were widely sold in the market, and an ethylene generator agent called Fresh Life (produced by Kyungnong) was used. The ethylene generator agent was positioned at the top of the box. Ethylene generator treatment was done on the day of harvest, 1 day after room temperature storage, and 2 days after room temperature storage for 120 hours, divided into sealed treatment and control group. Subsequently, the quality changes of the fruits were recorded over a period of 10 days at room temperature. A tendency to reduce fruit weight and firmness due to water loss and respiration was observed. Sugar content (°Brix) tended to increase as the storage period at room temperature increased, and acidity showed inconsistent changes. The color parameters Hunter L and b values tended to decrease, while a values tended to increase. Harvested fruit samples were stored in centrifuge tubes and frozen in a low-temperature freezer for subsequent antioxidant activity testing. Analysis of total polyphenol, DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities showed that the efficacy tended to decrease and then increase again after ethylene treatment. As a result, additional scientific research is required to determine the optimal timing of ethylene generator use, develop methods to maintain optimal ripening uonditions during distribution period, and create innovative distribution systems to minimize loss rates.