packaging of fruits in containers . the containers preferably have designed permeabilities to oxygen , carbon dioxide , and ethylene and include a gas - permeable membrane comprising a microporous film , and a polymeric coating on the microporous film . the containers enable storage and / or ripening of fruits under controlled conditions . using the new containers , fruits can be ripened while they are being transported , or in conventional ripening rooms without opening the bags in which they have been transported . in addition , fruits can be preserved in a satisfactory ripened state for longer periods of time . methods of treating fruits with insecticides , fungicides and mold - inhibiting compounds are also disclosed .