Abstract: To clarify the effect of exogenous ethylene treatments on benzene propane metabolism in tissues of fresh-cut leafy vegetables, lettuce and cabbage were taken as materials, which were washed and fresh- cut, then treated with ethylene.The activity of PAL ( phenylalanin ammonia- lyase) and the contents of main secondary metabolism substances, such as phenol, total flavonoids and lignin were measured. The results showed that the activity of PAL and the contents of total phenol, flavonoids in tissue of fresh-cut lettuce and cabbage were inhibited after exogenous ethylene treatments, in the contrast, the content of lignin was promoted.In summary, the sensitivity of fresh-cut lettuce to exogenous ethylene was more remarkable than that of fresh-cut cabbage.