Search Results (84)

Fresh fruit are highly perishable commodities, facing significant postharvest losses primarily due to physiological deterioration and microbial spoilage. Conventional preservation methods often face limitations regarding safety, residue, and environmental impact. Because of its rapid decomposition and low-residue-impact characteristics, ozone has proven superior as an efficient and eco-friendly solution for preserving fruit quality after harvest. The maturation and aging processes of kiwifruit are closely linked to the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism. This study aimed to investigate the effects of intermittent ozone treatment (21.4 mg/m³, applied for 0, 1, 3, or 5 h weekly) on ROS metabolism, the antioxidant defense system, and storage quality of kiwifruit during cold storage (0.0 ± 0.5 °C). The results showed ozone treatment slowed the decline in titratable acid (TA) content and fruit firmness, inhibited increases in total soluble solids (TSSs) and weight loss, and maintained the storage quality. Additionally, ozone treatment enhanced the activities of antioxidant-related enzymes. This includes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). Furthermore, it delayed the reduction in ascorbate (ASA), glutathione (GSH), total phenolic compounds, and flavonoid content, while also preventing the accumulation of ROS and the rise in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. In summary, the results indicate that ozone treatment enhances the antioxidant capacity of kiwifruit by increasing the structural integrity of cell membranes, preserving the structural integrity of cell membranes, and effectively maintaining the storage quality of the fruit. Full article

Mabroom dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) are recognized as one of the most important crops in Qatar. Fresh fruit dates are susceptible to mould and post-harvest spoilage, resulting in a significant financial loss. Octanoic fatty acid (OFA) has been shown to regulate the growth of mould-causing organisms such as fungi and bacteria. It is known to have antibacterial properties. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the in vitro effect of OFA on the post-harvest pathogens of Mabroom fruits. Fresh, apparently healthy, and fully ripe Mabroom dates were obtained from the National Agriculture and Food Corporation (NAFCO). The chosen fruits were packed in sterile, well-ventilated plastic boxes and transported to the lab under controlled conditions. The fruits were distributed into five groups (G1 to G5). The groups G1, G2, and G3 received 1%, 2%, and 3.5% OFA, respectively, while G4 was left untreated and G5 was washed only with tap water as a positive control treatment. Each group contained 200 g of fresh and healthy semi-soft dates. The samples were then dried and incubated in a humidity chamber at 25 °C ± 2 for seven days. The signs and symptoms of decay were monitored and recorded. The presence of pathogens was confirmed via phenotypic and microscopic-based methods. The results showed a significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) among the groups. OFA at 3.5% had the strongest inhibitory action against post-harvest pathogens, followed by OFA2%. However, there were no differences (p ≤ 0.05) between OFA1% and the control groups. Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., Rhizopus spp., and Botrytis spp. were most abundant in the control group, followed by OFA2% and OFA1%, respectively. In conclusion, octanoic fatty acid at 3.5% may improve the quality of date fruits through its high antimicrobial activity, reduce the effect of post-harvest decay, minimize the loss of date fruits during storage, and improve the sustainability of date fruits. Further experiments are necessary to confirm the effectiveness of OFA as a green solution for sustainable date fruit production. Full article

Postharvest fungal diseases are a major cause of fruit spoilage and economic losses, particularly in perishable commodities like strawberries. In this study, a plant-derived Weissella paramesenteroides strain R2 was isolated from the mango fruit surface and evaluated for its antifungal potential. Dual-culture assays revealed the strong inhibitory activity of strain R2 against key postharvest pathogens, including Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and Fusarium oxysporum. Notably, cell-free fermentation broth exhibited no antifungal activity, whereas the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by R2 significantly suppressed fungal growth in sealed plate assays. GC-MS analysis identified 84 VOCs, with pyrazines as the dominant group. Three major compounds, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, and 2-furanmethanol, were validated for their antifungal activity. The application of R2 VOCs in strawberry preservation significantly reduced disease incidence and severity during storage. These findings highlight W. paramesenteroides R2 as a promising, food-safe biocontrol agent for postharvest disease management via VOC-mediated mechanisms. Full article

Unveiling temperature patterns within agricultural products remains the most important indicator for their quality assessment during post-harvest treatments. Temperature control and monitoring within vented packages is essential for preserving the quality of perishable goods, such as tomato fruits, by preventing localized temperature maxima that can accelerate spoilage. This study proposes a modeling and simulation approach to systematically investigate how ventilation design choices influence internal airflow distribution and the resulting cooling performance. Our analysis compares three distinct venting configurations (single top vent, single middle vent, and two vents) across two package boundary conditions: an open-top system allowing for dual air exits through the open top boundary and the outlet vent(s), respectively, and a closed-top system with a single exit pathway through the outlet vent(s). All scenarios are simulated to assess airflow patterns, velocity magnitudes, and temperature uniformity within different package designs. Full article

The global fish industry faces persistent challenges due to the inherent perishability of fish, driven by enzymatic autolysis, lipid oxidation, and microbial proliferation. Although numerous studies have characterized these individual spoilage pathways and evaluated discrete preservation techniques, practitioners still lack a unified, mechanism-based framework that links spoilage chemistry to targeted interventions. This gap prevents the rational selection and optimization of preservation methods. In this review, we first synthesize recent multi-omics and microbiological findings to delineate the molecular drivers of post-harvest fish spoilage. We then critically map a suite of preservation approaches—including low-temperature treatments (refrigeration, super-chilling, freezing), high-pressure processing, modified atmosphere packaging, nanoemulsion and essential-oil coatings, pulsed electric fields, and ozonation—onto the specific mechanisms they mitigate. By comparing efficacy metrics, practical constraints, and emerging innovations, our mechanism-driven roadmap clearly defines the problems we address and offers actionable guidance for developing more effective and sustainable fish preservation strategies. Full article

It is a well-known fact that proper nutrition is essential for human beings to live healthy lives. For thousands of years, it has been considered that dates are one of the best nutrient providers. To have better-quality dates and to enhance the shelf life of dates, it is vital to preserve dates in optimal conditions that contribute to food security. Hence, it is crucial to know the shelf life of different types of dates. In current practice, shelf life assessment is typically based on manual visual inspection, which is subjective, error-prone, and requires considerable expertise, making it difficult to scale across large storage facilities. Traditional cold storage systems, whilst being capable of monitoring temperature and humidity, lack the intelligence to detect spoilage or predict shelf life in real-time. In this study, we present a novel IoT-based shelf life estimation system that integrates multichannel gas sensors and a lightweight machine learning model deployed on an edge device. Unlike prior approaches, our system captures the real-time emissions of spoilage-related gases (methane, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide) along with environmental data to classify the freshness of date fruits. The model achieved a classification accuracy of 91.9% and an AUC of 0.98 and was successfully deployed on an Arduino Nano 33 BLE Sense board. This solution offers a low-cost, scalable, and objective method for real-time shelf life prediction. This significantly improves reliability and reduces postharvest losses in the date supply chain. Full article

Postharvest spoilage of horticultural produce is a significant challenge, contributing to substantial food waste and economic losses. Traditional preservation methods, such as chemical preservatives and fungicides, are increasingly being replaced by sustainable, chemical-free alternatives. Microbial interventions using beneficial bacteria, fungi, and yeasts have emerged as effective solutions to enhance the postharvest quality and extend shelf life. Advancements in omics technologies, such as metabolomics, transcriptomics, and microbiomics, have provided deeper insights into plant–microbe interactions, facilitating more targeted and effective microbial treatments. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning further supports the selection of optimal microbial strains tailored to specific crops and storage conditions, further enhancing the treatment efficacy. Additionally, the integration of smart cold storage systems and real-time microbial monitoring through sensor technologies offers innovative approaches to optimize microbial interventions during storage and transport. This review examines the mechanisms through which microbes enhance the postharvest quality, the role of omics technologies in improving microbial treatments, and the challenges associated with variability and regulatory approval. Amid growing consumer demand for organic and sustainable solutions, microbial-based postharvest preservation offers a promising, eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical treatments, ensuring safer, longer-lasting produce while reducing food waste and environmental impact. Full article

This study presents a non-invasive approach to monitoring post-harvest fruit quality by applying CO₂ laser photoacoustic spectroscopy (CO₂LPAS) to study the respiration of “Conference” pears from local and commercially stored (supermarket) sources. Concentrations of ethylene (C₂H₄), ethanol (C₂H₆O), and ammonia (NH₃) were continuously monitored under shelf-life conditions. Our results reveal that ethylene emission peaks earlier in supermarket pears, likely due to post-harvest treatments, while ethanol accumulates over time, indicating fermentation-related deterioration. Significantly, ammonia levels increased during the late stages of senescence, suggesting its potential role as a novel biomarker for fruit degradation. The application of CO₂LPAS enabled highly sensitive, real-time detection of trace gases without damaging the fruit, offering a powerful alternative to traditional monitoring methods. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) models, particularly convolutional neural networks (CNNs), were explored to enhance data interpretation, enabling early detection of ripening and spoilage patterns through volatile compound profiling. This study advances our understanding of post-harvest physiological processes and proposes new strategies for improving storage and distribution practices for climacteric fruits. Full article

Among the factors threatening food security in Nigeria are poor access to credit facilities, the high cost of inputs, and poor processing and storage. Cereals and grains are among the staple food crops highly consumed by Nigerians. In this study, multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 1200 registered rice processors from Agricultural Development Programme zones in the Nigerian states of Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Ekiti, and a structured questionnaire was used to obtain data on primary, secondary, and tertiary postharvest operations. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. The results showed that the majority (65.1%) of the respondents were male, 54.5% were 30–60 years old, 86.9% were married, 96.3% had been formally educated, and 99.9% processed, 71.5% packaged, and 79.4% stored more than 5001 kg of rice monthly. The majority (85.9%) of the respondents had no knowledge of rice moisture content and still used local means of rice processing, while 14.1% of the respondents used modern means of rice processing. We concluded that stored local rice was still subject to more wastage, spoilage, and losses due to the poor processing, packaging, and storage methods used in the study area. We recommend the adoption of modern and suitable rice technologies for processing, packaging, and storage. Furthermore, credit facilities should be made available, and inputs should be subsidized for rice farmers and processors. Full article

Despite the growth of fruit production, the challenge of postharvest fruit loss particularly in tropical and subtropical fruits due to spoilage, decay, and natural deterioration remains a critical issue, impacting the global food supply chain by reducing both the quantity and quality of fruits postharvest. Edible coatings have emerged as a sustainable solution to extending the shelf life of fruits and decreasing postharvest losses. The precise composition and application of these coatings are crucial in determining their effectiveness in preventing microbial growth and preserving the sensory attributes of fruits. Furthermore, the integration of nanotechnology into edible coatings has the potential to enhance their functionalities, including improved barrier properties, the controlled release of active substances, and increased antimicrobial capabilities. Recent advancements highlighting the impact of edible coatings are underscored in this review, showcasing how they help in prolonging shelf life, preserving quality, and minimizing postharvest losses of subtropical fresh fruits worldwide. The utilization of edible coatings presents challenges in terms of production, storage, and large-scale application, all while ensuring consumer acceptance, food safety, nutritional value, and extended shelf life. Edible coatings based on polysaccharides and proteins encounter difficulties due to inadequate water and gas barrier properties, necessitating the incorporation of plasticizers, emulsifiers, and other additives to enhance their mechanical and thermal durability. Moreover, high levels of biopolymers and active components like essential oils and plant extracts could potentially impact the taste of the produce, directly influencing consumer satisfaction. Therefore, ongoing research and innovation in this field show great potential for reducing postharvest losses and strengthening food security. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in the application of edible coatings and their influence on extending the postharvest longevity of main subtropical fruits, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the quality of fresh and fresh-cut subtropical fruits, prolonging their shelf life, and protecting them from deterioration through innovative techniques. Full article

The Kponan yam (Dioscorea cayenensis-rotundata) is a culturally and economically important crop in Côte d’Ivoire but faces significant post-harvest losses, reducing farmers’ and traders’ incomes. This study aimed to identify strategies to minimize these losses during storage. To this end, Kponan yams from Bondoukou, Bouna, and Kouassi-Kouassikro, key production areas, were grown in experimental plots and monitored over three months in both field and warehouse storage. The results showed that yams harvested in Kouassi-Kouassikro (2.53 ± 0.06 kg) and Bondoukou (2.37 ± 0.09 kg) were heavier than those from Bouna (2.01 ± 0.11 kg). Storage conditions influenced spoilage: yams stored in pits had lower alteration rates (40.00% to 48.57%) compared to those stored under straw huts or trees (100%). In warehouses, alteration rates ranged from 72.29% (Bondoukou) to 100% (Kouassi-Kouassikro), with rot rates varying from 47.05% to 70.00%, respectively. Weight losses varied from 15.15% to 36.67% in warehouses versus 8.47% to 42.86% in field storage. These results underline the importance of storage methods, with pit storage significantly reducing deterioration. Full article

Fruits are a significant source of natural nutrition for human health. However, the perishable nature and short shelf life of fruits lead to spoilage, nutrition safety challenges, and other substantial postharvest losses. Edible coatings have emerged as a novel approach in order to enhance the shelf life of perishable fruits by forming a protective barrier against adverse environmental conditions and microbial infections. Sodium alginate is recognized as an excellent polysaccharide (derived from algae, seaweed, etc.) in the food industry for edible fruit coatings because of its non-allergic, biodegradable, non-toxic (safe for human health), inexpensive, and efficient gel/film-forming properties. However, the hydrophilicity of the polysaccharides is a significant concern to prevent the growth of mold and yeast. In recent years, various plant extracts (containing multiple bioactive compounds, including polyphenolic acids) and nanoparticles have been applied in sodium alginate-based edible films and fruit coatings to enhance antimicrobial activity. This review study summarized recent advancements in fabricating plant extracts incorporating sodium alginate-based films and coatings to enhance fruit shelf life. In addition, approaches to preparing edible films and the basic mechanism behind the role of coating materials in enhancing fruit shelf life are discussed. Moreover, the limitations associated with sodium alginate-based fruit coatings and films have been highlighted. Full article

This study presents a proof-of-concept evaluation of optimized whole-cell biosensors designed for the real-time detection of crop infections. Genetically engineered luminescent bacterial strains were used to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by crops during spoilage. Key factors investigated include bacterial uniformity, nutrient supply, and temperature effects. The results demonstrated that lower temperatures (+4 °C) yielded higher sensor sensitivity and prolonged bacterial viability. A proof-of-concept evaluation was conducted in storage-like conditions, showing effective infection detection in potatoes. These findings underscore the potential of whole-cell-based biosensors for monitoring postharvest production in cold storage environments. Full article

Appropriate calcium treatments help maintain the appearance, nutritional quality, and postharvest quality of apples, reducing losses during storage. This study investigated the effects of different calcium preparations on the fresh-cut quality and ultrastructure of ‘Starkrimson’ apples. The treatments included control (CK), calcium chloride (T1), sorbitol-chelated calcium (T2), and calcium nitrate (T3). The results demonstrated that sorbitol-chelated calcium significantly inhibited the decline in fresh-cut firmness and pectin content while reducing the increase in cellulose content and minimizing ultrastructural damage. Apples treated with sorbitol-chelated calcium maintained the best fresh-cut hardness and soluble pectin contents, which were 35.71% and 15.42% higher than that of CK on the 12th day, and the cellulose was 27.08% lower than that of CK. Under transmission electron microscopy, the pulp cell surface in the T2 group remained intact, with no bending or deformation, and the middle lamella was well preserved. Additionally, T2 treatment promoted the expression of aroma-related genes during fruit storage. Sorbitol-chelated calcium effectively preserved color and significantly reduced the browning and microbial spoilage of fresh-cut apples, particularly postharvest pathogen growth. The study demonstrates that sorbitol-chelated calcium preserves fresh-cut apple quality by reinforcing cell wall integrity through calcium-mediated crosslinking, suppressing pectin degradation and cellulose accumulation, and activating aroma-related genes (AAT1, AAT2, LOX) to enhance volatile synthesis, thereby reducing microbial spoilage and enzymatic browning during storage. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study explores the metabolic adaptations and quality differences between wild and farmed gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), with a particular focus on lipid composition and metabolite profiles. These differences are examined in the context of varying environmental conditions, feeding regimes, and post-harvest processes. High-resolution magic-angle-spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (HR-MAS NMR) spectroscopy was employed to perform the metabolomic analysis. Results: Farmed seabream exhibited higher lipid content and PUFA levels (e.g., DHA and EPA) due to aquaculture diets, while wild seabream showed lower lipid concentrations and elevated levels of polar metabolites. Metabolic trade-offs in wild seabream reflected greater physical activity and environmental adaptation. The K-value indicated faster spoilage in farmed seabream, particularly from Greece, linked to handling conditions. HR-MAS provided precise, reproducible results, allowing direct quantification of key metabolites without altering sample integrity. Methods: HR-MAS NMR was employed to analyze muscle tissue from wild and farmed seabream (produced in Spain and imported from Greece), providing high-resolution spectra without requiring sample extraction. Metabolite quantification included polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), creatine, taurine, lactate, and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). Freshness was monitored using the K-value index, calculated from ATP derivative levels in samples stored at 4 °C. Conclusions: The study highlights the influence of diet and environment on the metabolic profiles of seabream. HR-MAS NMR emerges as a robust method for metabolomic studies and freshness assessment. Findings emphasize the potential for dietary adjustments to optimize aquaculture practices and fish quality while underscoring the importance of sustainable production strategies. Further research into lipid metabolism genes and environmental factors is recommended to deepen understanding of these adaptations. Full article