Utilization of Carbonized Wastes as Ethylene Absorbers for Shelf- life Extension of Major Tropical Fruits in Southern Philippines

Climacteric fruits are a significant concern in the Philippines due to their perishable nature and sensitivity to environmental factors. Variables such as temperature fluctuations, changing rainfall patterns and the increased frequency of extreme weather events negatively affect fruit production, quality and shelf life. Implementing climate-resilient agricultural practices can help mitigate the impacts of climate change on fruit production. Techniques such as ethylene absorption or inhibition can potentially delay ripening and reduce spoilage of climacteric fruits.

This study was conducted to examine the effects of carbonized wastes on extending shelf life and improving the fruit quality of selected climacteric fruits (mango, papaya and banana). A completely randomized design (CRD) was used with five treatments: control, carbonized banana peels (CBP), carbonized corn husks (CCH), carbonized peanut shells (CPS) and potassium permanganate (standard check), each replicated four times. The carbonized agricultural wastes were applied during the storage of the selected fruits and postharvest quality parameters were assessed.

Among the treatments evaluated, carbonized banana peels (CBP) and carbonized peanut shells (CPS) delayed the ripening of climacteric fruits (‘Carabao’ mango, ‘Red Solo’ papaya and ‘Cavendish’ banana) stored under ambient room conditions. These fruits reached the limit of marketability (VQR 3) within 6–18 days of storage. The least cumulative weight loss and delayed color change were also recorded in the same treatments, which significantly improved the postharvest quality of the fruits. Based on these findings, carbonized wastes can be recommended as alternative ethylene absorbers for producers, distributors and retailers to extend shelf life, enhance market value and maintain postharvest quality of climacteric fruits.