Novel Role of Ethanol in Delaying Postharvest Physiological Deterioration and Keeping Quality in Cassava

Massive economic losses and the decrease in quality of cassava are caused by postharvest physiological deterioration (PPD). However, an effective solution remains limited. In this study, the role of ethanol in the PPD of cassava was investigated and highlighted. Exogenous ethanol delayed PPD and reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, while increased the underlying activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging. Moreover, exogenous ethanol increased the endogenous levels of ethylene and melatonin, all of which are negative regulators of PPD. Notably, this study found that exogenous ethanol reduced the degradation of starch, but enhanced ascorbic acid content and carotenoid content. In summary, these results revealed the novel role of ethanol in delaying PPD and improving the quality of cassava tubes without ethanol residue, suggesting an effective and promising way in cassava.