Arabinoxylan (AX) is a polysaccharide composed of arabinose, xylose, and a small number of other carbohydrates. AX comes from a wide range of sources, and its physicochemical properties and physiological functions are closely related to its molecular characterization, such as branched chains, relative molecular masses, and substituents. In addition, AX also has antioxidant, hypoglycemic, antitumor, and proliferative abilities for intestinal probiotic flora, among other biological activities. AXs of various origins have different molecular characterizations in terms of molecular weight, degree of branching, and structure, with varying structures leading to diverse effects of the biological activity of AX. Therefore, this report describes the physical properties, biological activities, and applications of AX in diverse plants, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for future research on AX as well as provide more options for crop breeding.

Controlled atmosphere (CA) has been used to alleviate chilling injury (CI) of horticultural crops caused by cold storage. However, the effects of CA treatment on peach fruit sensory quality and flavor-related chemicals suffering from CI remain largely unknown. Here, we stored peach fruit under CA with 5% O₂ and 10% CO₂ at 0 °C up to 28 d followed by a subsequent 3 d shelf-life at 20 °C (28S3). CA significantly reduced flesh browning and improved sensory quality at 28S3. Though total volatiles declined during extended cold storage, CA accumulated higher content of volatile esters and lactones than control at 28S3. A total of 14 volatiles were positively correlated with consumer acceptability, mainly including three C6 compounds, three esters and four lactones derived from the fatty acid lipoxygenase (LOX) pathway. Correspondingly, the expression levels of genes including PpLOX1, hyperoxide lyase PpHPL1 and alcohol acyltransferase PpAAT1 were positively correlated with the change of esters and lactones. CA elevated the sucrose content and the degree of fatty acids unsaturation under cold storage, which gave us clues to clarify the mechanism of resistance to cold stress. The results suggested that CA treatment improved sensory quality by alleviating CI of peach fruits under cold storage.

Peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) is valued for its flavor, nutrition, and economic importance, yet as a climacteric fruit, it undergoes rapid postharvest senescence due to respiratory surges and ethylene production, leading to flavor loss and reduced marketability. Recent advances in postharvest physiology, including ethylene regulation, metabolic analysis, and advanced packaging, have improved preservation. Compared with traditional methods, emerging technologies, such as nanotechnology-based coatings and intelligent packaging systems, offer environmentally friendly and highly effective solutions but face high costs, technical barriers, and other constraints. This review examines changes in key flavor components—amino acids, phenolic compounds, sugars, organic acids, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—during ripening and senescence. It evaluates physical, chemical, and biotechnological preservation methods for maintaining quality. For instance, 1-MCP extends shelf life but may reduce aroma, underscoring the need for optimized protocols. Emerging trends, including biocontrol agents and smart packaging, provide a foundation for enhancing peach storage, transportation, and marketability.

The freshness phenotype of fruit and vegetables is a critical determinant of consumer satisfaction, selection, and public health, which plays a pivotal role in postharvest quality management. This paper presents a review of the definition and detection techniques used to assess and maintain this vital freshness phenotype. Advanced intelligent packaging technologies, that incorporate sensors, indicators, and data carrier systems, and their roles in dynamically monitoring the freshness phenotype during storage and transportation are discussed. The integration of nondestructive testing (NDT) methods such as near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR), hyperspectral imaging (HSI), machine vision, and light detection and ranging (LiDAR) offers real-time, precise assessments of the freshness phenotype without compromising the integrity of the produce. By understanding the underlying mechanisms of the fruit and vegetable freshness phenotype, this paper discusses the definition, detection technologies, and gaps that require further research. The integration of advanced quantitative models with NDT and intelligent packaging solutions has the potential to reduce food waste. This advancement will lead to better quality control, extended shelf life, and increased consumer confidence in fresh produce, driving innovation and application within the food industry.