The Tasting Table cites UMaine Extension resources about ethylene in article about broccoli
The Tasting Table cited the University of Maine Cooperative Extension’s information about ethylene in an article about the best way to keep broccoli fresh. For the best flavor and crispness in storage, the article says that broccoli should be kept away from fruits that produce ethylene. According to UMaine Extension, ethylene gas is a compound that jumpstarts the ripening process in fruit. As fruit comes closer to ripening, they increase the output which speeds the process up further. The amount being produced differs by variety. Fruits like McIntosh apples and bananas tend to produce far more ethylene gas which means that they can be difficult to store once they’ve ripened.