Total phenolic content of plant foods varies according
to the extrinsic factors, such as geographic differences and
different climate features, parts of plants analyzed, harvesting
time, extraction and determination methods [6].
Besides, phenolic contents of plants depend on a number
of intrinsic factors, such as genus, species and cultivars [7].
Apples have a relatively long storage life comparing
with other fruits varieties. However, the main problem of
apple storage is the fruit firmness. Fruit ripening is accompanied
by softening, which is one of the most important
determinants of fruit quality and consumer acceptability.
Softening is generally considered an undesirable ripening
process in apple fruit, as firmer apples tend to be juicier,
crisper, crunchier and less mealy than softer ones [8]. One
way of extending storage life of fruit is to control ethylene
production and perception.
1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) is a synthetic cyclic
olefin capable of inhibiting ethylene action. It acts in very
low concentrations as a competitor of ethylene, blocking its
access to the ethylene-binding receptors [9]. 1-MCP is now
used commercially in many parts of the world as a postharvest
tool to maintain the quality of numerous horticultural
products [10]