Abstract:

This study examined effects of multiple preharvest acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) sprays combined with postharvest
1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) fumigation on the quality and antioxidant ability of muskmelon (Cucumis melo cv.
Manao) fruit during cool storage. The plants were sprayed with ASA four times, namely at young fruit period (2 weeks
after flowering), fruit enlarging period (3 weeks after flowering), netting period (4 weeks after flowering) and 2 days before
harvest, respectively. After harvest, the fruits were fumigated with 1-MCP. The results indicated that preharvest ASA
treatment inhibited weight loss, retarded peel yellowing, maintained the levels of total soluble solids and titratable acid,
increased the contents of total phenolics and flavonoids, and enhanced the antioxidant ability of fruits. 1-MCP fumigation
decreased weight loss, maintained fruit firmness and increased the contents of ascorbic acid. Preharvest ASA combined with
postharvest 1-MCP treatments showed a synergistic effect on maintaining high levels of total soluble solids and titratable
acid and enhancing the contents of total phenolics and flavonoids. In conclusion, ASA and 1-MCP treatments maintained the
postharvest quality of muskmelons, which is related to the inhibition of ethylene production. Both chemicals enhanced the
antioxidant activity of fruits, which are involved in the accumulation of phenylpropanoid metabolites and ascorbic acid.

Key words: salicylic acid, 1-MCP, fruit, quality, antioxidant ability