Recent findings in plant cell wall structur e and metabolism: futur e challenges and potential implications for softening

Purpose of the review: On e of the main problems limiting the postharvest life of horticultural products is excessive softening. The tex tural properties of produce are associated with modifications i n cell wall metabolism that affect wall structure and composition. R ecen t findings have increased the breadth of our understanding of cell wall metabolism. This article discusses future challenges and pot ential implications of softening.