Glossary

Respiration is the process by which living tissues use stored compounds and oxygen to release energy, producing carbon dioxide and water. Harvested mangoes remain alive and continue respiring as they ripen. Temperature and fruit condition influence the rate, which helps explain changes in storage life and the need for suitable handling. Slowing respiration is not the same as stopping deterioration, and enclosing fruit without adequate gas exchange can create off-flavors or injury instead of preserving quality.