Pepino fruits respiration rate

Pepino fruits cachun (Solanum muricatum Ait.) were harvested at mature green stage and kept at room temperature during 4 weeks. Postharvest respiration rate, ethylene production and color were measured daily during this period. Pulp firmness and soluble solids were measured at the beginning and at the end of respiration period. Results confirm the non climacteric type of respiratory activity during postharvest period and ethylene production was not detectable. Nevertheless fruits showed a color evolution from a green stage to a normal ripe, light yellow green color.