1-Methyl cyclopropene extends postharvest life of spinach leaves

Senescence of detached spinach leaves either untreated or treated with 0.1 or 1.0μLL−1 1-MCP has been investigated. 1-MCP treated leaves had higher chlorophyll content and photosystem II potential quantum yield (Fv/Fm) and lower solute leakage than untreated leaves after storage in darkness at 23°C for 6d, indicating a delay of senescence. Ethylene production was increased in spinach supplemented with 1-MCP after 3d storage and then declined to the rates of untreated leaves. 1-MCP treated spinach had higher ascorbic acid and glutathione concentrations, and a low oxidised/reduced ratio for both antioxidants. Accumulations of ammonium and protein degradation were reduced by 1-MCP. The results presented here indicate that inhibition of ethylene sensitivity can be successfully used to extend the postharvest life of spinach leaves.