The management of ethylene may be another postharvest
consideration for quality maintenance during storage
and transportation. Ethylene is a natural hormone
produced by plants and is involved in many natural
functions during development, including ripening.
Ethylene treatments may be applied for degreening or
to accelerate ripening events in fruits harvested at a
mature but unripe developmental stage. For a detailed
discussion of the role of ethylene in ripening and
postharvest management, see Postharvest Technology of
Horticultural Crops (ANR Publication 3311)