Effects of 1‐methylcyclopropene combined with modified atmosphere on postharvest quality and cell wall metabolism of <i>Zizania latifolia</i>

Abstract During postharvest storage, the metabolism of cell wall components greatly affects the quality of fruits and vegetables. Utilizing 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) as an ethylene receptor inhibitor and modified atmosphere (MA) separately or in combination (1‐MCP+MA) were investigated for their impact on Zizania latifolia quality during postharvest storage. The treatments effectively controlled firmness increase, color degradation, and reductions in soluble protein, reducing sugar, total phenol, and ascorbic acid content, with the combined 1‐MCP+MA showing the most significant effect. These treatments also moderately changed soluble pectin, protopectin, cellulose, and hemicellulose content, preserving the activities of essential enzymes and the expression of enzyme genes. The combined treatment particularly demonstrated superior preservation capabilities, holding promise for reducing postharvest losses and maintain the storage quality of edible produce, offering insights for efficient postharvest storage and freshness maintenance of fruits and vegetables.