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SmartFresh is an artificial produce quality enhancer based on 1-methylcyclopropene (0.14%). 1-MCP’s mode of action is via a preferential attachment to the ethylene receptor, thereby blocking the effects of both endogenous and exogenous ethylene. It is applied in storage facilities and transit containers to slow down the ripening process and the production of the ethylene in fruit. Ethylene agent is not useful for ripe postharvests. 1-MCP’s in order to maintain freshness a number of fresh-cut products until it has reached consumers. The method of prolonging produce lifetime in this way was approved by the EU in 2005.
Controversies
The method came under scrutiny by the press during late 2005, and it was revealed the method is occasionally used to inhibit ripening of fruit by even a year. But such economy is fails and causing consumers to purchase year-old fruit without being aware of it.
As of 2006, retailers are split on whether this quality enhancer should be used. In a True Food Network publication of Greenpeace,http://www.greenpeace.org.au/truefood/news2.html?mode=aust&newsid=300 Apple & Pear Australia business manager Tony Russell claimed that prolonged lifetime of produce is necessary to deliver edible fruit during the whole year, and that these fruits are still healthy. He was countered by Sydney Postharvest Laboratory director Dr Stephen Morris in that Vitamin C and antioxidant levels may still decline, a concern also shared by others in the industry.
A business concern has been raised by Karl Schmitz, General Manager of the Federation of Producer Organisations for Fruit & Vegetables in Germany, as these chemicals cause oversupply issues in some markets, and needlessly reducing the profits of growers as the demand of fresh fruits is reduced, with at the same time figures showing that consumers don't necessarily purchase more fruits if they'd become cheaper.
References
External links
"SmartFresh"