Assessment of ripening sachets for postharvest quality enhancement in Dashehari mango (Mangifera indica L.)

Abstract: Understanding the essential role of ethylene release in the long-distance transportation of climacteric fruits, like mangoes, is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between ethylene release and the postharvest ripening of mangoes. The research employed innovative ripening sachets to control the ripening process, specifically focusing on extending shelf life and enhancing quality. Dashehari mangoes exposed to ripening sachets releasing 100 ppm of ethylene exhibited improved quality attributes. The 6^th day post-treatment recorded the highest total soluble solids (TSS) at 17.37 °B and the lowest acidity at 0.23%. Ascorbic acid content and firmness were measured at 22.50 mg 100 gm^-1 and 2.63 kg cm^-², respectively. Polygalacturonase activity in mango pulp (11.80,08.56 U mL^-1 min^-1) and peel (34.00, 20.30 U mL^-1 min^-1) peaked on the 4^th and 6^th day, respectively. The peel colour L* value increases from 2^nd to 6^th day after treatment, whereas the a* and b* values increased from 2^nd to 4^th day and the a* and b* values gradually decreased on 6^th day in all the treatments except T₄. The study suggests that ripening sachets have the potential to effectively regulate mango ripening and preserving fruit quality for an extended period.