A novel technique using 1-MCP microbubbles for delaying postharvest ripening of banana fruit

• 1-MCP was designed for use in the form of aqueous micro bubbles (MBs) in solution.
• 1-MCP micro bubbles were more effective in delaying ripening of banana fruit than fumigation.
• This novel technique may have postharvest applications where facilities for 1-MCP application as a gas are not readily available.

This study aimed to investigate the application of microbubble technology for delaying banana ripening. A preparation of 1-MCP designed for use as a form of aqueous micro bubble (MBs) solutions was formulated. Banana fruit were immersed in 500 nL L−1 of aqueous 1-MCP microbubbles (1-MCP-MBs) or fumigated with 500 nL L−1 1-MCP, then stored at 25 °C for 8 days. 1-MCP-MBs were more effective in delaying postharvest ripening than conventional 1-MCP fumigation. 1-MCP-MBs reduced the respiration rate and ethylene production compared to the control and 1-MCP fumigated fruit. Moreover, 1-MCP-MBs delayed yellowing and maintained firmness of banana fruit during storage. These results indicate that 1-MCP-MBs can be used as an alternative method for delaying the postharvest ripening of banana fruit, and its application for other commodities needs to be further elucidated.