Answer:
Ripening agents are substances used to accelerate the ripening of fruits and vegetables, or to improve their color, texture, and flavor. Ripening agents work by releasing ethylene gas, a natural plant hormone that triggers the ripening process. Here are two examples of ripening agents:
1. Calcium Carbide: Calcium carbide is a chemical compound that reacts with water to produce acetylene gas, which is a ripening agent. It is commonly used to ripen fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas. Calcium carbide is not a food-grade chemical and is banned in many countries due to health concerns.
2. Ethylene Gas: Ethylene gas is a natural plant hormone that is produced by fruits and vegetables as they ripen. It can also be produced synthetically and used as a ripening agent to accelerate the ripening of fruits and vegetables such as bananas, tomatoes, and avocados. Ethylene gas is safe for human consumption and is a commonly used ripening agent in the food industry.