Ethylene

A colourless, highly flammable hydrocarbon gas with a sweetish aroma, produced by fruits and vegetables during ripening. As a plant growth regulator it accelerates ripening and has many horticultural uses. Removing ethylene from packaging delays fruit ripening, a key technique in fresh-produce logistics. Climacteric fruits — bananas, tomatoes, avocados — respond with accelerated ripening, while ethylene-sensitive produce such as lettuce and cucumbers suffer yellowing and decay from exposure. The industry therefore segregates storage, scrubs ethylene with potassium permanganate filters, and applies the ethylene blocker 1-MCP to extend apple and pear storage life.