Work

Measurement of Acetaldehyde in Senescing Apple Fruits1

Year: 1977

Type: article

Abstract: A new method for analyzing acetaldehyde concentration in apple ( Malus domestica Borkh.) tissues was used to measure its accumulation in senescing fruits. Initially low levels (1 µg/g fresh weight) increased as the fruits ripened, but only at advanced senescence did they reach relatively high levels (14 µg/g fresh weight). Acetaldehyde did not accumulate in advance of tissue disorganization. Watercored ‘Delicious’ apple tissue accumulated significantly more acetaldehyde than tissue of non-watercored fruits during storage, but watercore breakdown did not result. There was no consistent difference in acetaldehyde levels of ethephon-treated and non-treated ‘McIntosh’ apples after long-term storage, although the ethephon-treated fruits developed more senescent breakdown. However, the acetaldehyde level in fruits after breakdown occurred was about 20% higher than that in corresponding sound fruit. Acetaldehyde accumulation appeared to be a consequence of tissue disorganization rather than a cause of senescent breakdown in the fruits.

Source: Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science

DOI: 10.21273/jashs.102.3.318

Authors: John M. Smagula, William J. Bramlage

Institution: University of Massachusetts Amherst

Language: English

Topic: Postharvest Quality and Shelf Life Management

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,500