The influence of temperature and 1-MCP on quality attributes of ‘Galaxy’ apples stored in controlled atmosphere and dynamic controlled atmosphere

Controlled atmosphere (CA) associated with 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) or dynamic controlled atmosphere (DCA) with lower oxygen partial pressures (pO2), are strategies to long-term storage of apples (Malus x domestica Borkh). However, the effect of 1-MCP application in DCA stored fruit and the storage temperature adopted in this condition still need to be determined. The storage temperature increase is desired, aiming to reduce energy consumption. ‘Galaxy’ apples were stored for 9 months at 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 °C, in either CA or DCA monitored by respiratory quotient of 1.5 (DCA-RQ). Another set of fruit that received 1-MCP application was also stored in each condition. DCA-RQ drastically reduces the metabolism, allowing the storage at higher temperatures, even without 1-MCP application, with lower physiological disorders, higher healthy fruit amount and retention of flesh firmness and acidity. The quality maintenance after long-term apple storage in CA is only feasible associated to 1-MCP treatment.