Postharvest Biology and Technology
Md. Rukunuzzaman; Md. Atikur Rahman; Mst. Ananya Khatun; Mosa. Lajina Begum; Nazmin Akter; Md. Tariqul Islam
Abstract
Purpose: Mango shelf life has significance for both market availability and long-distance transportation. So, effective treatments of postharvest are vital for maintaining the climacteric character of mangoes by limiting postharvest losses during storage. Research method: A total of 96 physiologically ...
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Purpose: Mango shelf life has significance for both market availability and long-distance transportation. So, effective treatments of postharvest are vital for maintaining the climacteric character of mangoes by limiting postharvest losses during storage. Research method: A total of 96 physiologically mature mango fruits (8 fruits in each replication) were taken. This study assessed the effect of Aloe vera gel (1:1 AVG), chitosan (1.5% CTS), and combinations (CTS+AVG) on mango shelf life and postharvest features following 16 days at ambient storage (28±3°C and 80±5% RH). The experiment was conducted using completely randomized design. Findings: The results demonstrated that either CTS or AVG had a positive effect compared to control on different parameters but their combinations was considerably superior treatment equated to the control in terms of weight loss (13.09, 20.03%), reduced respiration rate (11.22, 19.89 mlCO2/kg/h), ethylene production (0.50, 0.56 µl/kg/h), total soluble solids (17.33, 22.23 oBrix), pH (5.86, 7.40) and decay percentage (13.14, 27.64%). Fruit quality metrics were all higher when CTS+AVG was used than the control, such as titratable acidity (0.66, 0.61), fruit firmness (28.61, 21.95 N/m2), ascorbic acid (14.52, 10.84 mg/100g), total phenolic content (112.99, 80.02 mg GAE/100g) and antioxidant activity (274.86, 196.65 µmol/g). Coated fruits exhibited a considerable reduction in polyphenol oxidase (PPO) (5.49, 7.87 U/mg FW), while higher levels of catalase (CAT) (0.54, 0.45 U/mg FW) and peroxidase (POD) (0.75, 0.70 U/mg FW) enzyme activity. During storage, coated fruit peels exhibited notably less discoloration than control fruits. Research limitations: In future, mechanism of CTS and AVG for prolonging shelf life of mangoes will be revealed using molecular approach. Originality/Value: These results suggest that chitosan (CTS) and Aloe vera gel (AVG) coatings combined can preserve ‘Mishribhog’ mango shelf life and postharvest quality for 16 days during ambient storage.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Farid Moradinezhad; Nida Firdous
Abstract
Purpose: Temperate fruits not only provide essential nutrients but also contribute to the diversity and sustainability of horticultural production systems worldwide. The total production of fruits, increased during the past twenty years. However, postharvest losses of fruits due to spoilage, decay, and ...
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Purpose: Temperate fruits not only provide essential nutrients but also contribute to the diversity and sustainability of horticultural production systems worldwide. The total production of fruits, increased during the past twenty years. However, postharvest losses of fruits due to spoilage, decay, and physiological deterioration pose a significant challenge to the global food supply chain, which leads to a decline in fruit quantity and quality after harvest. Findings: Edible coatings have emerged as a sustainable solution for extending the shelf life of fruits while reducing postharvest losses. The use of edible coatings is not only environmentally friendly but also addresses consumer demands for natural, safe, and healthy food products obtained through minimal processing. A wide array of edible coating materials is available, each possessing unique properties that influence their effectiveness in preserving fruits. The specific composition and application of edible coatings play a crucial role in their effectiveness in inhibiting microbial growth, reducing enzymatic browning, and maintaining the sensory quality of the fruits. Limitations: No limitations were found. Directions for future research: Future research should focus on exploring and developing new, sustainable, and biodegradable coating materials derived from renewable sources. Additionally, incorporating nanotechnology into edible coatings can enhance their properties, such as improved barrier properties, controlled release of active compounds, and enhanced antimicrobial activity. Continued research and innovation in this area hold significant promise for reducing postharvest losses, improving food security, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This review summarizes recent advances in different edible coating materials and their uses in prolonging shelf life and decreasing postharvest losses of important temperate fresh/fresh-cut fruits worldwide.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Nishat Jahan Nitu; Md. Sefat Ullah; Prianka Howlader; Md. Nazmul Hasan Mehedi; Habiba Zannat Meem; Santosh Kumar Bose
Abstract
Purpose: Mango is one of the most important and widely cultivated climacteric fruit which ripens rapidly after harvesting. It exhibits very short shelf life mainly due to high respiration rate, susceptible to various storage pathogens and mechanical injuries at the time of postharvest management which ...
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Purpose: Mango is one of the most important and widely cultivated climacteric fruit which ripens rapidly after harvesting. It exhibits very short shelf life mainly due to high respiration rate, susceptible to various storage pathogens and mechanical injuries at the time of postharvest management which lead to reduce the quality. However, the experiment was carried out to investigate the chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) coating effects on postharvest quality and shelf life of mango varieties. Research Method: Mango fruits of two selected varieties (Langra and Amropali) were collected at mature stage. Changes in different physico-chemical characteristics were studied at different days of storage under ordinary room condition through different COS concentration viz., control, COS 25 mg/L, COS 50 mg/L, COS 100 mg/L, COS 250 mg/L and COS 500 mg/L. The two factor-experiments were laid out in a completely randomized design with three replications. Findings: Results demonstrated that COS had a positive effect on retaining higher amount of anthocyanin content, total sugar and total soluble solid content. Moreover, COS treated fruits exhibited significant delays of firmness, weight loss percentage, titratable acidity, pH and vitamin C content compared to untreated fruits. In addition, between two varieties of mango, Langra exhibited better performance compared to Amropali when treated with COS 100 mg/L. Research Limitations: The study did not focus on ethylene biosynthesis and respiration rate determination. Originality/Value: COS 100mg/L have great potentiality to maintain postharvest quality and increase shelf life of mango which could be applied commercially for preservation of mango in an ecofriendly manner.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Elhadi M. Yahia; Jose de Jesús Ornelas-Paz; Claudia Inés Victoria-Campos
Abstract
Purpose: Changes in color, vitamin C, b-carotene, lycopene, a- and d-tocopherol were followed during ripening and senescence of mature-green tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill cv. Rhapsody) maintained at 22 °C and 85% RH for up to 5 weeks. Research method: Tomatoes were harvested at the ...
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Purpose: Changes in color, vitamin C, b-carotene, lycopene, a- and d-tocopherol were followed during ripening and senescence of mature-green tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill cv. Rhapsody) maintained at 22 °C and 85% RH for up to 5 weeks. Research method: Tomatoes were harvested at the mature-green stage and valuated for color and the content of selected bioactive compounds (β-carotene, lycopene, α- and δ- tocopherols and vitamin C) during simulated retail market conditions (22 °C and 85% RH for 5 weeks). Findings: The tested tomato cultivar had a long postharvest life under the tested conditions, as the fruit maintained in edible conditions during the whole storage period. Vitamin C, lycopene, a- and d-tocopherol presented their highest values after about 14 to 18 days after harvest, and b-carotene maintained a maximum content (0.84 mg/100 g) 8 days after harvest. The maximum content of vitamin C, lycopene, a- and d-tocopherol were 0.036, 30, 0.27 and 0.0045 mg 100 g-1 of fresh tissue, respectively. Our results indicate that 'Rhapsody' tomatoes harvested at the mature-green stage have shown important levels of vitamin E (tocopherols), C, and carotenoids (lycopene and b-carotene) after 14 to 17 days from harvest. Research limitations: There were no limitations. Originality/Value: This study evaluated the changes in the content of bioactive compounds in long shelf life tomatoes, of great importance for human health, for up to 5 weeks to determine the ideal moment for their consumption.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Farid Moradinezhad; Maryam Dorostkar; Razieh Niazmand; Gholamreza Doraki
Abstract
Purpose: There is no report regarding the physicochemical properties of dried barberry fruits from main production regions of the South Khorasan Province, Iran. Research Method: Therefore, we investigated the nutritional quality and bioactive compounds of dried, seedless barberry fruits from different ...
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Purpose: There is no report regarding the physicochemical properties of dried barberry fruits from main production regions of the South Khorasan Province, Iran. Research Method: Therefore, we investigated the nutritional quality and bioactive compounds of dried, seedless barberry fruits from different regions of South Khorasan Province, Iran. Dried barberries were evaluated after being purchased and collected. Findings: The highest total soluble solids (TSS) and the highest taste index (TSS/TA) were obtained for the barberries from the Birjand region, which indicates that the barberries from this region have better and sweeter tastes than those from other regions. However, the barberry fruits of the Qaen region had the greatest amount of titratable acidity (TA) and the lowest amount of TSS, which indicates that the fruits of this region are more sour than those of other regions. The examination of color indices (L*, a*, b*, Hue and chroma) showed that the lowest values of a* (redness) and chroma were related to the dried barberry of the Darmian region. Additionally, the highest total phenol content and anthocyanin content were detected in fruits from the Birjand region. However, barberry fruits from the Darmian region had the lowest phenol content and the lowest levels of anthocyanin and vitamin C. Positive strong correlations revealed between anthocyanin and TSS (r = 0.82), anthocyanin and phenol (r =0.95), anthocyanin and vitamin C (r =0.77), and anthocyanin and chroma (r =0.81). Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: In general, it can be concluded that the dry, seedless barberry fruits from the Birjand region had higher quality and nutritional value than those from other regions. Nevertheless, the barberries of the Zirkoh and Qaen regions also had acceptable quality and nutritional value. However, it seems necessary to control and review the storage and drying conditions of barberry fruits in the Darmian region.
Biological Control
Elham Adl; Mehdi Jahani; Mohammad Hossein Aminifard
Abstract
Purpose: The growing attention and interest in alternatives for chemical preservatives with natural types has led to numerous studies on essential oils and plant extracts. Strawberries, due to their high respiration and metabolic activity, and high water content, are highly sensitive to microbial contamination. ...
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Purpose: The growing attention and interest in alternatives for chemical preservatives with natural types has led to numerous studies on essential oils and plant extracts. Strawberries, due to their high respiration and metabolic activity, and high water content, are highly sensitive to microbial contamination. Research Method: An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of the essential oils of some medicinal plants on the fungus Aspergillus sp. in strawberry fruit in in vivo and in vitro conditions as a factorial form in a completely randomized design with three replications. The first factor included the type of essential oil: frankincense, ginger, cinnamon, and tarragon essential oils, and the second factor included the concentration of essential oil at five levels (0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 µL.L-1). Findings: In vitro results showed that with the increase in the concentration of plant essential oils, their antifungal activity increases. As a result, the lowest fungus colony diameter was obtained from the concentration of 800 µL.L-1 of essential oil. A comparison of the average type of essential oil showed that cinnamon essential oil had more antifungal activity than other essential oils used, so that at any level (200 to 800 µL.L-1), it caused a 100% inhibition of Aspergillus sp. growth. In vivo, results showed that the best appearance of the fruit and the highest soluble solids were recorded from the concentration of 800 µL.L-1 of essential oil. Cinnamon essential oil treatment resulted in the best fruit appearance, the highest soluble solids, and the highest levels of antioxidants, anthocyanin, and sugar compared to frankincense essential oil. Research limitations: There were no limitations. Originality/Value: Among the essential oils, cinnamon essential oil showed better antifungal activity against Aspergillus sp., which causes strawberry fruit spoilage. Therefore, it can be used as a substitute for chemical fungicides, although other essential oils may also be effective.
Food Science and Technology
Emmanuel Bwade Kefas; Bashir Aliyu; Yakubu Ibrahim Tashiwa
Abstract
Purpose: Despite the worldwide rise in annual tomato production, approximately 15-50% of harvested tomatoes are lost each year, posing a significant challenge to global food security. This review seeks to assess the efficacy of biochemical treatments in preserving tomatoes to mitigate post-harvest losses. ...
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Purpose: Despite the worldwide rise in annual tomato production, approximately 15-50% of harvested tomatoes are lost each year, posing a significant challenge to global food security. This review seeks to assess the efficacy of biochemical treatments in preserving tomatoes to mitigate post-harvest losses. A machine-based search mapped articles on "Chitosan coating and tomato preservation," "Calcium chloride and tomato preservation," and "Potassium permanganate and tomato preservation" using Google Scholar. Seventy relevant articles published between 1995 and 2024 were included in the systematic literature review. Findings: Calcium chloride, Chitosan coating, and Potassium permanganate exhibit promise in enhancing tomato shelf life, yet their efficacy is contingent upon variables like tomato variety and storage conditions. Achieving a universally effective treatment proves challenging due to variations in study outcomes, highlighting the complexity of preserving tomatoes optimally. Limitations: The variability observed in reported outcomes poses significant challenges when it comes to discerning the most effective and optimal treatment. This inherent inconsistency in results not only complicates the identification of a universally applicable solution but also underscores the intricate nature of the factors influencing treatment effectiveness. Directions for Future Research: Future research should examine treatment combinations, consider responses to tomato cultivars, assess ecological impacts, implement safety protocols, and utilize advanced analytical techniques to refine tomato preservation methods.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Omid Mirzabegi Kesbi; Ali Rajabipour; Mahmoud Omid; Seyed Hossein Goldansaz
Abstract
Purpose: In some orchards in the harvest season, the pomegranates are suspected to carob moth infestation. Visible infested fruits are removed but there is a possibility of hidden infestation. The effect of microwave heating on this hidden infestation was investigated in this study. Research Method: ...
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Purpose: In some orchards in the harvest season, the pomegranates are suspected to carob moth infestation. Visible infested fruits are removed but there is a possibility of hidden infestation. The effect of microwave heating on this hidden infestation was investigated in this study. Research Method: The mature pomegranate fruits were artificially infested with the eggs or larvae (1st, 2nd and 3rd) of the carob moth inside the crown. Microwave radiation was focused on the crown zone of infested pomegranate with a novel setup and its effect on pest mortality was studied. The experiments were carried out at three microwave powers (540, 720 and 900 W) and three heating times (4, 6 and 8 minutes). In order to study the effect of microwave heating treatments on pomegranate, quality parameters including appearance, weight loss, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, titratable acidity (TA) and taste index (TSS/TA) of the samples were investigated after 60 days’ storage. Findings: The egg and larval mortality rose with microwave power and heating time. The mortality was reduced with increasing the age of pest. There were no significant differences among values of quality factors except for titratable acidity. Because of 100% mortality with no significant differences on quality parameters, 6 min treatment time with 720 microwave power was selected as the optimum treatment. Research limitations: Energy consumption in microwave heating limits the application of this method in practice. Originality/Value: Microwave local heating of the pomegranate crown is an effective novel method to remove carob moth in hidden infestation.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Alex Guimarães Sanches; Ricardo Patrese Jorge Repolho
Abstract
Purpose: This work aimed to evaluate whether salicylic acid (4.0 mM) is able to preserve the quality and antioxidant metabolism of avocado fruit 'Quintal' cultivar. Research method: 'Quintal' avocados harvested at physiological maturity were immersed in salicylic acid (SA) solution (0 and 4.0 mM) for ...
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Purpose: This work aimed to evaluate whether salicylic acid (4.0 mM) is able to preserve the quality and antioxidant metabolism of avocado fruit 'Quintal' cultivar. Research method: 'Quintal' avocados harvested at physiological maturity were immersed in salicylic acid (SA) solution (0 and 4.0 mM) for 15 minutes at 25 ºC and stored at 15 ºC and 85 % RH for 16 days. The physical-chemical and biochemical quality parameters of the fruits were evaluated every four days. Findings: The treatment with SA (4.0 mM) reduced/delayed respiratory activity by up to two days compared to untreated fruits (control). There was also less loss of fresh mass, firmness, sugar synthesis (soluble solids), and degradation of organic acids (titratable acidity). In antioxidant metabolism, SA preserved the activity of phenylalanine ammonia lyase resulting in higher phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and lower polyphenoloxidase activity at the end of 16 days. Research limitations: One of the main limitations of this research is that ethylene production (a key player for climacteric fruit) was not measured in Avocado fruits during storage. Originality/Value: In addition to being the first report on the application of SA in postharvest avocados, our results demonstrate that SA (4.0 mM) is an effective and low-cost alternative to preserve the quality and antioxidant potential of avocados ‘Quintal’.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Erdinç Bal
Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this work was to determine the effects of UV-C and alginate coating, alone or in combination, on extending the storability and the quality of cherry tomato. Research method: Tomatoes were covered with a 2% alginate coating in combination with UV-C treatment or alone and stored at ...
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Purpose: The aim of this work was to determine the effects of UV-C and alginate coating, alone or in combination, on extending the storability and the quality of cherry tomato. Research method: Tomatoes were covered with a 2% alginate coating in combination with UV-C treatment or alone and stored at 10°C with 90-95% relative humidity for 20 days. Tomatoes were evaluated for weight loss, respiration rate, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, lycopene content, total phenolic content, antioxidant content and overall appearance every 5 day. Findings: The results indicated that UV-C +Alginate treatment was highly effective in preserving fruit quality and delaying senescence. Alginate coating preserved brightness and visual quality of fruit while preventing decay. Overall, the integration of UV-C irradiation with alginate coating was the best treatment that could strongly inhibit the increase in the weight loss and respiration and achieved the highest ascorbic acid, total phenolic and antioxidant content. Single UV-C treatment had a positive effect on biochemical compounds at the beginning, but could not maintain this effect at the end of storage. Moreover, lycopene concentration increased as the senescence progressed, but observed higher lycopene contents in control samples. Limitations: No limitations to report. Originality/Value: UV-C + alginate treatment may be a promising method of improving quality and extending the postharvest life of cherry tomatoes.
Ornamental Plants
Mehdi Molaei; Homayoun Farahmand; Fatemeh Nasibi
Abstract
Purpose: Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) is one of the most popular and economically important cut flowers worldwide ranking the third after rose and chrysanthemum. The vase life of many carnation cultivars is short due to sensitivity to ethylene or other factors. This research was performed to ...
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Purpose: Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) is one of the most popular and economically important cut flowers worldwide ranking the third after rose and chrysanthemum. The vase life of many carnation cultivars is short due to sensitivity to ethylene or other factors. This research was performed to study effect of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA 0.5, 0.75 and 1mM) on postharvest quality of tow famous carnation cultivars viz. Delphi (white) and Dob Pedro (Red). Research method: The experiment was conducted as completely randomized design (CRD) with five replications per treatment. Findings: The results indicated that all concentrations of GABA significantly prolonged the vase life in both cultivars. GABA decreased lipid peroxidation of petal tissue while increased the activity of some antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and guaiacol peroxidase (GPX). Polyphenoloxidase (PPO) activity was also decreased in GABA-treated cut flower. Interestingly, both cultivars responded similarly to GABA treatments. The findings also revealed that GABA had antioxidant properties capable of increasing defense ability of the carnation cut flower. Meanwhile, the applied concentration is very critical and should be taken into account. Based on the present findings, the best treatment is GABA at 0.75 mM. Limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: The results of this research indicated that GABA had antioxidant properties capable of increasing defense ability of the carnation cut flower. It appears that the applied GABA operates through membrane conservation, increasing the activity of antioxidants enzymes and decreasing PPO activity.
Fresh-Cut Produce
Farid Moradinezhad
Abstract
Purpose: Mango is an invaluable and climacteric fruit with a short shelf life. Minimally fresh‐cut mango fruit market is growing very fast, particularly in Europe and the United States, and recently in Asian countries and the Middle East. Consumers demand high quality in fresh-cut fruit. Research method: ...
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Purpose: Mango is an invaluable and climacteric fruit with a short shelf life. Minimally fresh‐cut mango fruit market is growing very fast, particularly in Europe and the United States, and recently in Asian countries and the Middle East. Consumers demand high quality in fresh-cut fruit. Research method: Effect of different post-cutting chemical treatments including calcium chloride (CaCl2), ascorbic acid (AA), salicylic acid (SA), oxalic acid (OA) and citric acid (CA) on the quality maintenance and extending the shelf life of fresh-cut were evaluated. Treated slices were placed into the Polypropylene (PP) containers with lids (Passive MAP) and stored at 4±1 °C for two weeks. Findings: The results showed that the highest firmness (7.01 N) was recorded in CaCl2 treated fresh-cut mangoes at the end of storage. The TSS significantly was lower in all treated fresh-cuts compared to the control. Besides, treated mango slices with AA, SA, and OA had a higher antioxidant activity than other treatments and control. Interestingly, mango slices that were treated with CaCl2 had a higher texture (4.33) value compared to the control and other treatments. The AA and CaCl2 treatments maintained the fresh-cut taste compared to the control and other chemical treatments after 14 days of cold storage. The highest shelf life was observed in CaCl2 (17.5 days) and SA (17.0 days) treatments. The hue values were best maintained in OA and CA treatments. Moreover, the total aerobic mesophilic bacterial and fungal counts remained below detection limits at the end of storage. Limitations: No limitations were found to report. Originality/Value: In conclusion, CaCl2, AA and SA were better treatments for fresh-cut mangoes because higher acceptability and sensorial quality and also longer shelf life.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Munir Abba Dandago; Lisa Kitinoja; Nura Abdullahi
Abstract
Purpose: Maize output is decreasing in developing countries due to poor postharvest management despite the huge investments. The study is aimed at identifying and quantifying sources and causes of postharvest losses from farm to retail and suggest appropriate interventions for reducing these losses. ...
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Purpose: Maize output is decreasing in developing countries due to poor postharvest management despite the huge investments. The study is aimed at identifying and quantifying sources and causes of postharvest losses from farm to retail and suggest appropriate interventions for reducing these losses. Research Method: Commodity system assessment on postharvest handling, storage and marketing of maize was conducted between July and August, 2017 in Nigeria, Rwanda and Punjab (India) using surveys, interviews, observations, measurements and quantification of losses along the value chain. Postharvest quality and economic loss assessments along the chain were based on physical damage, decay and weight loss. Findings: Causes of postharvest losses at farm level are similar in all the countries studied, with sorting losses from 2 to 50% and drying losses from 10 to 40%. Damage and defects were extremely high in Rwanda at the farm level. Maize is stored for 5 to 10 months with 2 to 3.5% damage in Nigeria and 6% in Rwanda. Maize is stacked in sacks during wholesale and cleaning rejects obtained is 2 to 11% in Nigeria and India, little or no sorting in Rwanda at wholesale. Postharvest losses are 15%, 60% and 20% of total produce for Nigeria, Rwanda and Punjab, which account for economic losses of $720 million, $131.2 million and $8.2 million respectively. Limitations: The research is limited to major production areas in the three countries because of funding. Originality/Value: The study identified problems, sources and causes of post-harvest losses and suggests appropriate interventions, training needs and advocacy issues to reduce these losses.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Puran Bridgemohan; Anushka Goordeen; Majeed Mohammed; Ronell S. H. Bridgemohan
Abstract
Purpose: This paper provides an in-depth critical review and analysis of current and recent research undertaken on the agro-ecology, photochemistry, postharvest physiology and utilization of Moringa oleifera Lam. Findings: This treatise provided a comprehensive review of current and relevant ...
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Purpose: This paper provides an in-depth critical review and analysis of current and recent research undertaken on the agro-ecology, photochemistry, postharvest physiology and utilization of Moringa oleifera Lam. Findings: This treatise provided a comprehensive review of current and relevant research on the horticultural practices, its agro-ecological conditions, and pre- and post-harvest operations and treatments. It showed the alignment of the biochemical production of the various phytochemicals to the ecophysiology of the plant particularly the variety and ecotypes, micro climatic and edaphic conditions, and the crop growth patterns. The detailed aggregation of the different phytochemicals and the sites of synthesis in the plant revealed that the plant produces in excess of 36 phytochemical compounds that manifest its biological efficacy in over 16 different human physiological activity and medicine. Additionally, it revealed the many approaches to the postharvest physiology of the plant parts and the extension of the shelf life and quality for processing opportunities. Research limitations: There were no significant limitations to the conducting of this exercise as the literature was available and accesses to communicate with authors were easily facilitated by the internet. Directions for future research: This is the only review which collated the findings on the agro-ecology, phytochemistry, postharvest physiology and utilization of Moringa oleifera Lam., and how it is linked to the world of ethno-medicine, and pharmacology. Further research is necessary to determine the efficacy of extracts from all parts of the moringa plant as potential and promising eco-friendly alternatives to common chemicals used as novel food preservatives.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Muhammad Ahmad; Musa Mohammed Abubakar; Sani Sale
Abstract
Purpose: Postharvest losses of fruits and vegetables are major problem for countries that agriculture is one of the source economy and that losses in tomato have reported from 20 to 50%. It is one of the very perishable fruit and it changes continuously after harvesting. The aim was to evaluate the effect ...
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Purpose: Postharvest losses of fruits and vegetables are major problem for countries that agriculture is one of the source economy and that losses in tomato have reported from 20 to 50%. It is one of the very perishable fruit and it changes continuously after harvesting. The aim was to evaluate the effect of guava (Psidium guajava) and physic nut (Jatropha curcas) leaf extract on fresh ripe tomato fruits. Research method: Two tomato varieties obtained (UTC and Tandilo) from Gombe Main Market and were then treated with aqueous and ethanolic extract of Psidium guajava and Jatropha curcas leaves to extend their shelf life and maintain the quality of tomato fruits during storage. The experiment was laid out using completely randomized block design, (CRBD). Number of days to deterioration was recorded on visual eating quality. The recorded data were analyzed using analysis of variance. Findings: Ethanolic extracts of P. guajava and J. curcas was highly effective on UTC variety. The postharvest decay that was the main quality factor in this experiment significantly reduced in Tandilo and UTC tomato fruits after using 2.5g/1000ml ethanolic J. curcas leaves extract by 24 and 25 days respectively; and 22 and 23 days after using 2.5g/1000ml ethanolic P. guajava leaves extract. Limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: These findings indicate that application of leaves extracts proved to be effective in extending the shelf life of test tomato fruits.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Es-hagh Hamidi; Zeynab Roein; Mahnaz Karimi
Abstract
Purpose: Rose cut flowers have a short postharvest life, which can be increased using different treatments. Thus, an experiment was designed to determine the effect of hot water (one min) and chemical solutions (pulse treatment for 20 h) on the postharvest quality of cut rose flowers cv. Baraka. Research ...
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Purpose: Rose cut flowers have a short postharvest life, which can be increased using different treatments. Thus, an experiment was designed to determine the effect of hot water (one min) and chemical solutions (pulse treatment for 20 h) on the postharvest quality of cut rose flowers cv. Baraka. Research Method: Hot water treatments contain 50, 55, and 60 °C, chemical treatments consist of catechol (5 and 10 mM), sodium azide (0.05 and 0.1 mM) and sodium metabisulfite (5 and 10 mM). Afterward, for the evaluation of associated traits with longevity, the flowers were kept in a vase solution containing sucrose (3%) and hydroxyquinoline (8-HQ at 200 mg. L-1). Findings: The results showed that the vase life of cut flowers extended about four days by the application of chemical treatments as compared with control. The maximum vase life (9.9 days) observed in 0.05 mM sodium azide and 10 mM catechol (9.7 days). Also, the vase life of cut flowers increased 3.7 days by hot water treatments (at 50 and 55 °C) in comparison to the control. Moreover, the results revealed that the catechol, sodium azide and sodium metabisulphite treatments delayed flower senescence and maintained leaf chlorophyll and petal anthocyanin content. The lowest content of lignin was obtained in 10 mM catechol, and 0.1 mM sodium azide. Research limitations: There was no significant limitation to the report. Originality/Value: Overall, the results showed that catechol and sodium azide were the most effective treatments to increase the vase life of rose cut flowers.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Mojtaba Mokhtarizadeh Naeini; Azam Jafari; Jalal Gholamnejad; Mohammadreza Vazifeshenas
Abstract
Purpose: One of the primary methods in increasing shelf life and maintaining the horticultural product quality is the application of edible coatings at the product surface. In this regard, this experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of tragacanth gum on some characteristics of pomegranate ...
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Purpose: One of the primary methods in increasing shelf life and maintaining the horticultural product quality is the application of edible coatings at the product surface. In this regard, this experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of tragacanth gum on some characteristics of pomegranate fruits such as weight loss, appearance quality, decay index, pH, soluble solid contents (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), maturity index, total phenol, vitamin C and anthocyanin content. Research Method: Fruits of two cultivars (‘Malase Yazdi’ and ‘Malase Daneh Siah’) were harvested and immersed in the tragacanth gum (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 g l-1) solution for one minute. After applying treatments, fruits were air-dried, weighed, put in plastic baskets, and kept in the conventional storage in a completely randomized design for three months. Some quantitative and qualitative traits were measured and compared with the non-treated samples. Findings: Results revealed using tragacanth gum had a different effect according to cultivar type. The results also showed that tragacanth gum coatings could control the reduction of fruit appearance quality, and reduce the number of fruit decay in the ‘‘Malase Yazdi’’. In ‘‘Malase Daneh Siah’’, coating with tragacanth gum could improve pH, SSC, TA, and total anthocyanin content. Phenol content in both cultivars increased at the highest concentration (10 g l-1) of this edible coating. Research limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: Tragacanth gum coating could improve fruit quality of pomegranate during traditional storage and can be recommended to traditional pomegranate gardeners who still have large-scale traditional pomegranate storage.
Food Science and Technology
Munir Abba Dandago; Daniel T. Gungula; Hycenth Nahunnaro
Abstract
Purpose: Tomato postharvest losses are as high as 60% in Nigeria despite being 13th producer. This could be reduced when tomatoes were carefully treated and packaged. This research investigated the effects of chemical dips and packaging on storability of tomatoes. Research method: The research was a ...
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Purpose: Tomato postharvest losses are as high as 60% in Nigeria despite being 13th producer. This could be reduced when tomatoes were carefully treated and packaged. This research investigated the effects of chemical dips and packaging on storability of tomatoes. Research method: The research was a factorial design laid out in RCBD with three replications. The field work was done in Kura while the laboratory was done at Kano University of Science and Technology. Tomatoes were harvested, sorted, weighed into 3 kg lots and treated (D1= dip in water, D2= dip in 200 ppm NaOCl and 1% CaCl2 for 5 minutes and D3= dip in 200 ppm NaOCl and 3% C6H7KO2 for 5 and 1 minutes respectively) and packaged as follows: (P1= kraft paper, P2= perforated polyethylene and P3= sealed polyethylene). Analyses of firmness, % weight loss, % rot, ascorbic acid and lycopene were carried out every 3 days. Data collected were analyzed using GLM procedure (SAS) and means separated using LSD. Main findings: Results showed fruits dipped in 200 ppm NaOCl and CaCl2 for 5 minutes; packaged in perforated PE; and fruits dipped in 200 ppm NaOCl and CaCl2 for 5 minutes and packaged in sealed polyethylene were the best combinations. The treatments maintained physico-chemical parameters of tomatoes within acceptable limit for 24 days. Limitations: Firmness measurement was a challenge of the study. Originality/Value: A combination of the two factors is novel in the study environment and this could help in reducing the postharvest losses thereby improving farmers’ income.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Farzaneh Hamedi Sarkomi; Farid Moradinezhad; Mehdi Khayyat
Abstract
Purpose: Quality loss is high in pomegranate due to physiological disorders occurred during growth and developmental stages of fruit in main production areas in Iran. Research method: we evaluated the effects of preharvest fruit bagging time (July and August), and bag color (white and brown) on sunburn, ...
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Purpose: Quality loss is high in pomegranate due to physiological disorders occurred during growth and developmental stages of fruit in main production areas in Iran. Research method: we evaluated the effects of preharvest fruit bagging time (July and August), and bag color (white and brown) on sunburn, cracking, anthocyanin content, and quality of pomegranate fruit. This experiment was carried out on eight-year-old pomegranate trees cv. Shishe-Kab in an orchard located in Ferdows, South Khorasan province, Iran. Main findings: The results showed that the maximum (90%) and minimum (25%) sunburn percentage was observed in control (non-bagged fruits) and white-bagged fruits at August (WBA), respectively. Similarly, the highest percentage of cracking (65%) and the lowest (5%) was obtained in control and WBA, respectively. Non-bagged fruits showed the highest (23.61 mg-1) anthocyanin, and the lowest rate (13.55 mg-1) observed in brown-bagged fruit in July (BBJ). The brightness (L) of the peel color of brown-bagged fruit in August (BBA) was the highest while the lowest L value obtained in control and white-bagged fruits in July (WBJ). Bagging did not change the weight, volume, and pH of pomegranate juice. Interestingly, bagging in both white and brown bag effectively reduced fruit sunburn and cracking and decreased the total damaged fruits, particularly when fruits were bagged in August, as compared with non-bagged control. Research limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: The results suggest that proper pre-harvest bagging to improve the quality and reduce losses of pomegranate fruit cv. Shishe-Kab.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Reza Rahimi; Babak ValizadehKaji; Ali Khadivi; Iman Shahrjerdi
Abstract
Purpose: Peach is a climacteric fruit which have rapid ripening. An alternative to maintain quality and extend the shelf life of this fruit could be the use of edible coatings. Research Method: In the present study, the effect of three different coatings; 0.5% chitosan, 200 mg L-1 thymol essential oil ...
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Purpose: Peach is a climacteric fruit which have rapid ripening. An alternative to maintain quality and extend the shelf life of this fruit could be the use of edible coatings. Research Method: In the present study, the effect of three different coatings; 0.5% chitosan, 200 mg L-1 thymol essential oil and their combined use on postharvest quality of peach fruits cv. ‘Zaferani’ were investigated. Dipping fruits in distilled water was used as a control. Changes in weight loss, fruit firmness, total soluble solids (TSS), sensory attributes, decay incidence, anthocyanin and carotenoid content of fruits were evaluated after 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 days of storage at 6 °C. Findings: The results showed that the combination treatment of chitosan and thymol presented more effective preservative effect than chitosan or thymol coatings alone. The coated fruits with 0.5% chitosan + 200 mg L-1 thymol showed significantly lower weight loss, fungal decay and TSS than control treatment. Furthermore, the coated fruits with 0.5% chitosan + 200 mg L-1 thymol exhibited significantly higher firmness, anthocyanin and carotenoid content and sensory characteristics than untreated control. In addition, the highest shelf life (28.33 days) was recorded in combination treatment of chitosan and thymol. Research limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: The coating composed of chitosan and thymol essential oil can provide an efficient alternative for quality maintenance and shelf life extension of peach fruits.
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Mehrdad Babarabie; Hossein Zarei; Atoosa Danyaei; Morteza Alippor
Abstract
Purpose: Since most cut flower consumers do not have knowledge as to how to extend the post-harvest life of the cut flowers, the cut flowers purchased by them last for a very short time. The present study aimed to evaluate the people’s awareness as to cut flowers and the extent to which they consume ...
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Purpose: Since most cut flower consumers do not have knowledge as to how to extend the post-harvest life of the cut flowers, the cut flowers purchased by them last for a very short time. The present study aimed to evaluate the people’s awareness as to cut flowers and the extent to which they consume and keep these flowers in Gorgan, Iran. Research method: The sample size was determined to be 267 individuals by the Cochran formula. Considering the research objectives, 13 questions were developed within a questionnaire. Findings: The results showed that 34.1 percent of respondents had no knowledge as to the cut flowers. Among the studied parameters, the cost was the second most important factor in flower choice after interest. Among respondents, 55.1 percent asserted that advertisement and promotion methods were effective on flower consumption. Also, 77.9 percent stated that they only used water to keep flowers and just a little percent added compounds to water. Research limitations: Evaluation of people from more cities in Iran. Originality/Value: It was found that flower consumption was not in a good state and people in Gorgan, Iran did not have enough knowledge as to the cut flowers and how to keep them and it was far from the ideal situation. To enhance people’s knowledge and improve their vision, it is necessary to perform training and extension works by the relevant officials.
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