Illustration for the question “Which listed tropical fruit is commonly harvested green and ripened with ethylene after shipment?”

Nature

Which listed tropical fruit is commonly harvested green and ripened with ethylene after shipment?

Correct answer Banana

Fact

Did you know?

Like other climacteric fruits, the banana continues to ripen after being picked. This process is due to the release of ethylene, a natural gas produced by the fruit that accelerates its ripening. Bananas are harvested when they are still green and firm, which makes them more resistant to damage during transport. Once at their destination, they ripen to become yellow and sweet. This phenomenon allows distributors to manage stock more efficiently and ensure that bananas are in perfect condition for consumption when they reach consumers.

Reviewed by the Qulture editorial team · October 13, 2026

Our editorial method · FAO — Production is only half the battle: Some special post-harvest treatments · Report an error

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