Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) is an innovating chemical which inhibits the action of ethylene in plants, delaying the onset of the ripening of pomaceous fruits, stone fruits and tropical fruits. The present work intended to evaluate the efficiency of different concentrations of 1-MCP upon the control of ripening of bananas 'Prata Anã' produced in Northern Minas Gerais State (Brazil), stored at 12°C and 95% of RH under passive modified atmosphere. The clusters were harvested at degree 1 of skin coloration, which corresponds to the unripe stage of maturation. Only the second bunches of cluster were selected which were separated into bouquet of four fruit were harvested. Each plot consisted of four replicates and each replicate of one bouquet. The concentrations of 1-MCP applied were: 0, 30, 60 and 90 ppb. The fruit were packed into plastic foam trays and wrapped in 15-micron PVC film, stored at 12ºC and 95% of RH, being evaluated at 10, 15, 20 and 25 days. The performed evaluations consisted of diameter, degree of skin coloration, firmness, soluble solids, titrable acidity and pH. Application of 1-MCP was effective in delaying the ripening of bananas 'Prata Anã' grown in the North region of Minas Gerais State. The concentrations of 30, 60 and 90 ppb presented no distinct effect as regard to the evaluated characteristics, the concentration of 30ppb being able to be employed with a saving of the chemical, obtaining the same benefits as the concentrations of 60 and 90 ppb.
1-MCP; post-harvest conservation; Musa spp
