The role of 1-MCP in preserving the quality of pome fruit

In the fresh fruit supply chain, maintaining quality after harvest is a key challenge. In the case of apples and pears, preserving their crisp texture, flavour and freshness during transport and extended storage is crucial to ensuring a good consumer experience and preventing waste.

One of the most significant advances in post-harvest fruit management has been the use of 1- methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), a molecule that blocks the action of ethylene, the hormone responsible for the ripening and ageing process of fruit. Thanks to this treatment, the ageing of the fruit is slowed down, helping to preserve its firmness, colour and flavour for a longer period.

However, not all 1-MCP-based products are the same. The fundamental difference lies in registration: a registered product has passed rigorous assessments by independent local authorities, guaranteeing its efficacy, safety and regulatory compliance.

SmartFresh™ is an effective solution that helps to extend the shelf life of fruit

AgroFresh’s SmartFresh™ is the most widely recognised 1-MCP treatment on the global market. Patented, duly registered and approved, it has been helping producers worldwide to preserve the quality of their fruit for over 20 years. In Europe, its use has been key to helping maintain the firmness and freshness of apple varieties such as Gala and Golden Delicious, helping to improve profitability and consumer satisfaction.

In contrast to unregistered formulations that seek to be marketed in Spain without complying with applicable regulations, both national and regional, SmartFresh™ offers technical and legal guarantees, as the product is duly registered in Spain. The use of unregistered 1-MCP can not only compromise the quality of the fruit, but also its marketing, the brand’s reputation and regulatory compliance. In an increasingly demanding environment, choosing registered products is a commitment to regulatory compliance, trust and sustainability.

Furthermore, by reducing losses due to spoilage, SmartFresh™ contributes to a more efficient supply chain with less waste, aligning with the fruit sector’s sustainability objectives.

More information concernig SmartFresh™