Commerial Use of 1-Methylcyclopropene(1-MCP)
There are two principal commercial uses of 1-MCP: maintaining the freshness of ornamental plants and flowers, and preventing the ripening of fruits. In each case, 1-MCP is combined with other materials for handling and then mixed with a specific amount of water or other solution to release it into the air. It is used in enclosed indoor sites, such as coolers, truck trailers, greenhouses, storage facilities, and shipping containers.
1-MCP was approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for use on ornamental crops. It is used with cut flowers, potted flowers, and bedding, nursery and foliage plants to prevent premature wilting, leaf yellowing, premature flowering, and premature death.
1-MCP is used in the agriculture industry by growers, packers, and shippers to maintain the quality of fruits and vegetables by preventing or delaying the natural ripening process. The use of 1-MCP in agricultural products including apples, kiwifruit, tomatoes, bananas, plums, persimmons, avocados and melons has been approved and accepted for use in more than 34 countries including the European Union and the United States. Although there are benefits to the consumer, including fresher produce and lower cost, there is some concern that consumers may be purchasing fruit that is older than expected, with less vitamins.
1-MCP is also being developed as a new crop protection technique. By spraying 1-MCP on growing field crops during times of stress, the crops may be protected from moderate heat and drought conditions.
