Researchers from Cornell University have conducted a study that offers significant insights into prolonging the shelf life of Gala apples.
The study, which focuses on the effects of harvest maturity and preharvest treatments on cold-induced ethylene production, has been published in the esteemed journal HortScience.
The Challenge of Ethylene in Apple Storage (Photo : JOEL SAGET/AFP via Getty Images)
Ethylene is a naturally occurring plant hormone that accelerates the ripening and aging of fruits. For apple producers, managing ethylene levels is a critical aspect of ensuring fruit longevity, especially during cold storage.
Gala apples, a widely grown cultivar, are particularly susceptible to ethylene-induced ripening, making them a challenging variety to store over extended periods.
Innovative Approach to Harvesting and Treatment
The Cornell study sheds light on the relationship between the timing of apple harvest and subsequent ethylene production when the fruit is stored in cold conditions.
Researchers found that apples picked at an earlier stage of maturity exhibited lower levels of ethylene production during cold storage compared to those harvested later. This discovery points to the potential benefits of adjusting harvest schedules to enhance the storage life of Gala apples.
AVG Treatment: A Promising Solution
A key component of the study was the application of aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG), an inhibitor known to suppress ethylene production.
The research team applied AVG before harvest and observed a significant reduction in ethylene production across all maturity stages during cold storage.
Notably, the effect was more pronounced in earlier apples, suggesting that early harvest combined with AVG treatment could be a game-changer for the industry.
AVG's Role in Ethylene Inhibition
AVG treatment is applied to apple trees before harvest. The compound effectively inhibits the enzyme responsible for converting methionine to ACC (1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid), which is the precursor to ethylene in the ethylene biosynthesis pathway.
By blocking this step, AVG treatment reduces the internal ethylene levels in apples, slowing down the ripening process.
Impact on Apple Maturation and Storage Research has shown that when AVG is applied about four weeks prior to harvest, it can significantly reduce internal ethylene levels, amylose degradation, and the accumulation of sugars such as sucrose, glucose, and sorbitol in apples. This results in a delay in fruit maturation and an extension of the storage period without compromising the quality of the fruit.
For apple producers, AVG treatment offers a way to manage the ripening of their fruit more effectively. By controlling ethylene production, they can reduce spoilage and maintain the desirable qualities of apples over extended periods.
This is particularly beneficial for Gala apples, which are prone to cold-induced ethylene production that can lead to premature ripening during storage
The findings from this study have far-reaching implications for apple producers and storage facilities. By fine-tuning harvest timings and incorporating AVG treatments, it is possible to control ethylene production better, reduce spoilage, and maintain the desirable qualities of Gala apples for longer durations.
This research not only promises to improve the storage and shelf life of one of the world's most beloved apple varieties but also provides a blueprint for other cultivars, potentially transforming storage practices across the apple industry.
The study conducted by Cornell University represents a significant step forward in our understanding of fruit storage and preservation.
As the apple industry continues to seek ways to maintain fruit quality and extend shelf life, the insights provided by this research could lead to more sustainable and efficient storage solutions, benefiting producers and consumers alike.
