Glossary

Ethylene gas is a naturally produced plant hormone involved in fruit ripening and other growth responses. Mature mangoes produce ethylene as they ripen, and exposure can help coordinate ripening in controlled commercial systems. It cannot replace the developmental changes needed before harvest, so immature fruit may still taste poor. At home, a paper bag can retain naturally produced ethylene, but the fruit needs ventilation and regular checking. Do not use unapproved chemicals or improvised gas systems to force ripening.