Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Oluwagbenga Oluwasola Adeogun; Adeniyi Adetola Sanyaolu; Temitope Oluwaseun Samuel; Aliyu Abubakar; Mosqurat Abiola Agbabiaka; Adedotun Adeyinka Adekunle
Abstract
Purpose: This study investigated the effectiveness of tragacanth gum (TG) coatings integrated with peppermint oil (PO) in controlling pathogenic fungi in banana fruits. Research Method: The research specifically evaluated the in-vitro and in-vivo responses of these coating agents on fungal pathogens ...
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Purpose: This study investigated the effectiveness of tragacanth gum (TG) coatings integrated with peppermint oil (PO) in controlling pathogenic fungi in banana fruits. Research Method: The research specifically evaluated the in-vitro and in-vivo responses of these coating agents on fungal pathogens and assessed their impact on peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activities in banana fruits. Findings: The study revealed that tragacanth gum integrated with peppermint oil (TGPO) effectively inhibited the growth of Colletotrichum musae and Aspergillus fumigatus in bananas. TGPO-treated fruits exhibited significantly lower disease incidence (32.67±1.00 % for C. musae and 28±1.00 % for A. fumigatus) and severity compared to the controls after 14 days. The treatment also maintained higher catalase and peroxidase enzymatic activities, indicating enhanced disease resistance. Furthermore, TGPO-treated bananas retained better quality parameters during the 15-day storage period, including optimal pH levels, lower total soluble solids, reduced water activity, greater firmness, and decreased electrical conductivity. Research limitations: No limitations were identified during the course of carrying out this study. Originality/Value: The originality and value of this work lie in being the first study to investigate TGPO as a natural preservative coating for bananas. While previous research has examined various edible coatings and essential oils separately, this study uniquely demonstrates how integrating tragacanth gum and peppermint oil creates an effective, eco-friendly solution for extending banana shelf life by controlling fungal pathogens (particularly C. musae and A. fumigatus) while maintaining fruit quality. This novel approach addresses growing consumer demand for natural food preservation methods while potentially reducing post-harvest losses in the banana industry.
Original Article
Pomology
Waleed Fouad Abobatta; Ahmed A. Farag
Abstract
Purpose: Citrus is one of the most significant fruit crops in the world, and there are huge amounts of citrus in Egypt, especially orange. Shortage of water resources is the main challenge for citrus production, therefore, proper management of water resources for orange orchards is essential in Egypt. ...
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Purpose: Citrus is one of the most significant fruit crops in the world, and there are huge amounts of citrus in Egypt, especially orange. Shortage of water resources is the main challenge for citrus production, therefore, proper management of water resources for orange orchards is essential in Egypt. Research Method: The current study’s objective was to calculate the water footprint components of orange production in four governorates (Beheira, Gharbia, Menoufia, and Sharqiya) during 2020-2023. Findings: Data indicated that different irrigation rates affected tree growth, tree yield, total yield, yield efficiency, and fruit quality. Results showed that trees grown in the Salhyia area recorded the highest values of canopy ratio increment (42.21%), N leaf content (2.46%), yield efficiency (5.92 kg/m3), tree yield (132.00 kg/tree), total yield (52.80 tons/ha), TSS/TA ratio value (11.75), and the lowest acidity value (0.99 %). The highest values of leaf K content (1.76%), and vitamin C (42.83) were recorded in Al Mahalla El Kubra region, while the highest P leaf content (0.314%) was observed in Ashmoun district. Data showed that water use efficiency was lower in surface irrigation with a value of 3.71 kg orange/m3 water and higher in drip irrigation with a value of 3.81 kg orange/m3 water. Research limitations: There was no limitation. Originality/Value: Regarding water footprint components, data revealed that the drip irrigation system had lower green, grey and total water footprint values than surface irrigation. In contrast, the blue water footprint was the height under the drip irrigation system rather than the surface irrigation system.
Original Article
Pomology
Ahmed S. Abd El-Rahman; Fawzia I. Moursy; Amira Sh. Soliman; Mohamed A. Abd El-Wahab; Alaa A. Khalil
Abstract
Purpose: Climatic circumstances are significant determinants in the formation and growth of the vine. Due to variations in climatic parameters, high-temperature affects phenology, the ripening period, and physicochemical characteristics are detrimental to the quality of the grapes produced and gradually ...
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Purpose: Climatic circumstances are significant determinants in the formation and growth of the vine. Due to variations in climatic parameters, high-temperature affects phenology, the ripening period, and physicochemical characteristics are detrimental to the quality of the grapes produced and gradually decrease the yield. Research method: This investigation studies the effect of heat units on the yield and fruit quality of some grape cultivars in different regions of Egypt. This trial evaluates two grape cultivars (Flame Seedless and Crimson Seedless) grown in three distinct locations (El-Behira, El-Menoufia, and El-Minia governorates) during seasons (2021 and 2022). Findings: Heat units negatively affect the phenological dates of the grape growth cycle. However, the warmer regions (El-Minia governorate) accelerated various phases or stages in the phenological development of grapevines, including bud burst, full flowering, fruit set, veraison, and grape maturity as compared to the moderate regions (El-Behira and El-Menoufia governorates). Regarding yield and its attributes, the moderate regions (El-Behira and El-Menoufia governorates) had the highest yield. They improved the bunch physiochemical attributes of Flame Seedless and Crimson Seedless grapes compared to the warmer region (El-Minia governorate). Research limitations: There were no limits. Originality/Value: Heat units negatively affect the phenological stages of grape growth (bud break, full flowering, fruit set, veraison, and grape maturity) and physicochemical characteristics.
Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Senthilkumar Shricharan; Akshay Ramaswamy Deenadayalan; Bhavesh Vadher; Kumar J Hemanth; Arghyadeep Ashok Bhattacharjee
Abstract
Purpose: Pomegranate is of considerable economic significance, with Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat serving as the primary cultivation regions. Despite the high production levels, postharvest losses are serious, with certain fruits experiencing fruit cracking, fungal infections, and poor handling ...
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Purpose: Pomegranate is of considerable economic significance, with Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat serving as the primary cultivation regions. Despite the high production levels, postharvest losses are serious, with certain fruits experiencing fruit cracking, fungal infections, and poor handling during transportation, resulting in postharvest losses of up to 35%. For controlling postharvest infections in a variety of fruits and vegetables, synthetic fungicides are incredibly effective. Research Method: VeSolution is a GRAS salt-based formulation with antimicrobial properties developed to assess its efficacy in minimizing fruit rotting. Therefore, the present investigation examined the effectiveness of VeSolution in reducing these postharvest losses. The infected fruits were used to isolate and identify fungal pathogens. Subsequently, the antifungal efficacy of the VeSolution formulation was assessed by both in vitro and in vivo methodologies. The in vitro investigations entailed evaluating the formulation's inhibitory effects on mycelial growth of identified fungal pathogens on PDA plates. In the in vivo evaluation, artificially inoculated pomegranate fruits were subjected to VeSolution treatment to test their effectiveness in mitigating rot advancement. Finally, VeSolution-treated pomegranates were exposed to supply chain conditions to assess their practical efficacy. Critical parameters, including rot advancement, in-transit spoiling, and fruit quality were assessed. Findings: Aspergillus sp., Alternaria sp., and Coinella sp. were identified as fungi associated with pomegranate fruit rotting. The results indicated that the growth of the fungal colony was substantially inhibited by the 2% and 5% concentrations of VeSolution. The fruit rot development and progression were effectively restricted by the 2% VeSolution, as confirmed by in vivo assessments. Subsequent pilot and large-scale trials demonstrated that 1% VeSolution substantially reduced rot during longer (> 24 h) transportation periods. Research limitations: There were no limitations. Originality/Value: These results emphasise VeSolution as a viable and non-toxic alternative to conventional synthetic fungicides for maintaining the postharvest quality of pomegranates.
Original Article
Tropical Fruits
Ebrahim Saboki; Azam Jafari
Abstract
Purpose: Pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) is a tropical fruit of significant economic importance worldwide. The cultivation of this crop is influenced by various factors, including the growth media, which directly affect plant growth, yield, and fruit quality. Therefore, selecting the appropriate ...
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Purpose: Pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) is a tropical fruit of significant economic importance worldwide. The cultivation of this crop is influenced by various factors, including the growth media, which directly affect plant growth, yield, and fruit quality. Therefore, selecting the appropriate growth medium is crucial for achieving optimal pineapple production. Research method: This study was conducted over four years and evaluated five growing medium treatments: 1) a control consisting of field soil, sand, and animal manure; 2) peat moss and perlite; 3) peat moss, perlite, and sand; 4) cocopeat and perlite; and 5) cocopeat, perlite, and sand. Each treatment was replicated three times, with six pots per replicate, arranged in a randomized complete block design under a shade system with drip irrigation in Chabahar, located in Sistan and Baluchestan province, Iran. Findings: The results indicated that the cocopeat, perlite, and sand mixture significantly outperformed the other treatments in terms of vegetative growth and yield. The fruit weights with crown for the main plant and ratoon grown in this medium were 1208 and 851 g, respectively, with corresponding yields of 101,173 and 62,240 kg/ha, respectively. A combination of cocopeat, perlite, and sand has proven to be the optimal growth medium for pineapple cultivation. Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: This study demonstrated that this specific mixture significantly enhanced vegetative growth, fruit yield, and overall plant health compared with the other tested media. These results suggest that this growing medium can be effectively used for pineapple production in a controlled environment.
Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Nhi Yen Dinh; Da Uyen Tran Dao; Loan Thi Thanh Cao; Phu Hong Le; Diep Thi Ngoc Tran
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to determine optimal storage conditions for preserving ten-year-old fresh Ngoc Linh ginseng (Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv.), a highly valued medicinal plant grown in the Ngoc Linh mountain region of Vietnam. Effective postharvest storage methods are important to maintain ...
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Purpose: This study aimed to determine optimal storage conditions for preserving ten-year-old fresh Ngoc Linh ginseng (Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv.), a highly valued medicinal plant grown in the Ngoc Linh mountain region of Vietnam. Effective postharvest storage methods are important to maintain Ngoc Linh ginseng’s quality and phytochemical integrity. Research Method: Ethylene production and respiration rates of Ngoc Linh ginseng were evaluated, followed by a preliminary investigation in the dry season to understand the impact of temperature on its quality and shelf life. Finally, subsequent experiments were implemented in both seasons to determine the optimal storage temperature. Findings: Ethylene production and respiration rates of the Ngoc Linh ginseng were consistently low in both the dry and rainy seasons. The ginseng experienced severe dehydration and fungal decay at room temperature, while storage at 0 °C led to chilling injuries. Higher temperatures of 10 °C and 15 °C accelerated the deterioration of the ginseng. In contrast, storage at 3 °C and 6 °C significantly extended the ginseng's shelf life. A follow-up experiment confirmed that 3 °C was the most effective for retaining freshness, skin brightness, visual sensory attributes, and total saponin content in Ngoc Linh ginseng in both seasons over 35 days. Research limitations: No limitations were identified. Originality/Value: This is the first study on extending the fresh storage of Ngoc Linh ginseng, a highly valuable herb of Vietnam. Identifying 3 °C as the optimal storage temperature provides a potential standard for fresh ginseng preservation and supports future research and commercial applications.
Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Farid Moradinezhad; Maryam Dorostkar; Razyeh Niazmand; Gholamreza Doraki
Abstract
Purpose: The microbial load and nutritional value of products have always been important issues in human nutrition. This research aimed to identify and determine the microbial levels and total antioxidant contents of dry, seedless barberry fruits collected from different regions of South Khorasan Province, ...
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Purpose: The microbial load and nutritional value of products have always been important issues in human nutrition. This research aimed to identify and determine the microbial levels and total antioxidant contents of dry, seedless barberry fruits collected from different regions of South Khorasan Province, which is the main production area in Iran. Research Method: Fruit samples were prepared from four regions, including the Birjand region, Zirkoh region, Darmian region, and Qaen region. Chemical traits and microbial analysis were evaluated. The microbial load was determined and compared with the maximum limit (ML) standards. Findings: Microbiological analyses of fruits from the Birjand region, Zirkoh region, Darmian region and Qaen region revealed that, fortunately, E. coli bacteria were not found in any of the studied regions. However, the highest amounts of total aerobic bacteria (4.60 log10 CFU.g-1) and yeast/mold bacteria (4.17 log10 CFU.g-1) were obtained from fruits prepared from the Darmian region, which was higher than the standard defined by the Food and Drug Organization of Iran. The highest coliform level was related to the fruits of the Darmian region (1.69 log10 CFU.g-1) and the Qaen region (1.69 log10 CFU.g-1), which were lower than those of the MLs. Considering the standards defined with the MLs in Iran, the microbial load regulations in Iran exhibit a higher level of stringency than those in other nations do. Additionally, chemical analyses revealed that the highest amount of total soluble solids and the lowest pH of fruit juice were from the fruits of the Birjand region. The highest amount of titratable acidity and the highest antioxidant activity were related to the fruits of the Qaen region. Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: The nutritional value of barberry fruit is the highest in the Qaen region, followed by the Birjand region. Although the pre- and postharvest stages can affect the microbial load of products, storage conditions during the drying period of seedless barberry fruits play a crucial role in determining the microbial load.
Original Article
Food Science and Technology
Shirazoom Munira; Md. Yamin Kabir; Shamim Ahmed Kamal Uddin Khan; Md. Iftekhar Shams
Abstract
Purpose: Mango is a well-known fruit in tropical and sub-tropical countries, including Bangladesh. However, mangoes are climacteric fruits and exhibit limited storage life due to a high respiration rate. Mangoes are also susceptible to particular storage pathogens at postharvest and thus possess a short ...
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Purpose: Mango is a well-known fruit in tropical and sub-tropical countries, including Bangladesh. However, mangoes are climacteric fruits and exhibit limited storage life due to a high respiration rate. Mangoes are also susceptible to particular storage pathogens at postharvest and thus possess a short shelf life. Research Method: Mature mangoes were treated with different concentrations of chitin nanofiber (CNF) and stored in ambient conditions to evaluate the effect of CNF (0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5%) on postharvest quality and shelf life. Disease-free and physiologically mature mangoes were collected from an orchard. The experiment was devised following a Completely Randomized Design with three replications, and each replication consisted of 10 fruits. Fruits were evaluated for physical quality (weight loss, fruit firmness, and color changes), chemical attributes [ changes in total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), vitamin C content], microbial (disease incidence and disease severity), and shelf life. Findings: The application of 0.3% CNF maintains fruit color (6.33 vs. 4), decreases disease incidence (62.5% vs. 100%) and prolongs the shelf life (8.5 days vs. 6.02 days) of mangoes than the control. Similarly, 0.1% of CNF retains vitamin C (24.33 mg/100g vs. 12.33 mg/100g), decreases disease severity (62% vs. 85.68%), and 0.5% of CNF reduces weight loss (19.34% vs. 31.4%) than the control. Research Limitations: CNF preparation requires lab facilities and technical expertise, and it is costly. Originality/Value: CNF 0.3% has the potential to maintain postharvest quality and extend the shelf life of mangoes. However, more research is needed to make the final recommendation at the farmers’ level.
Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Elhadi M. Yahia; José de Jesús Ornelas-Paz; Claudia Inés Victoria-Campos
Abstract
Purpose: Tocopherols (vitamin E) are important bioactive components in some fruits, possessing potent antioxidant activity and exerting a significant influence on metabolic pathways, human nutrition, and health. However, the content of tocopherols in apple fruit peels and pulp has scarcely been investigated. ...
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Purpose: Tocopherols (vitamin E) are important bioactive components in some fruits, possessing potent antioxidant activity and exerting a significant influence on metabolic pathways, human nutrition, and health. However, the content of tocopherols in apple fruit peels and pulp has scarcely been investigated. Research method: Fruits of eight apple cultivars were evaluated for color, total soluble solids (TSS), and tocopherols from both the pulp and peels were extracted and analyzed. Findings: The content of a-tocopherol (0.073–0.656 and 0.01–0.02 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW) in the peel and pulp, respectively) was higher than that d-tocopherol (0.002–0.01 and 0.0001–0.0014 mg 100 g FW in the peel and pulp, respectively), and both tocopherols were higher in the peels than in the pulp. The content of a-tocopherol followed the order: ‘Braeburn’ > ‘Golden Delicious’ > ‘Rome’ > ‘Red Delicious’ and ‘Royal Gala’ > ‘Jonagold’ > ‘Fuji’ > ‘Granny Smith’. Low levels of d-tocopherol were detected in the peels. ‘Granny Smith’ apples had the highest d-tocopherol content in the peel (0.01 mg 100 g FW), whereas ‘Rome Beauty’, ‘Royal Gala’ and ‘Fuji’ apples exhibited the lowest levels (0.002 mg 100 g FW). Research limitations: There were no limitations identified. Originality/Value: Our results indicate that tocopherols content in apple peels and pulp is relatively low compared to other types of fruits rich in vitamin E. However, regular consumption of whole apples may contribute to daily vitamin E intake and help prevent the oxidation of lipophilic biomolecules.
Review Article
Medicinal Plants
Bujaningrum Ega Agustina; Berna Elya; Roshamur Cahyan Forestrani
Abstract
Purpose: Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, widely used for traditional and emerging therapeutic purposes. This review investigates the environmental and physiological determinants of phytochemical variation in Mitragyna speciosa (kratom), with a focus on optimizing ...
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Purpose: Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, widely used for traditional and emerging therapeutic purposes. This review investigates the environmental and physiological determinants of phytochemical variation in Mitragyna speciosa (kratom), with a focus on optimizing alkaloid yield and raw material quality. As kratom gains commercial traction, particularly in Western markets, the need for standardizing cultivation practices becomes increasingly urgent. Findings: Geographic origin significantly influences mitragynine content, with native Southeast Asian samples displaying higher and more consistent levels than those cultivated elsewhere. Environmental factors such as light exposure, temperature, soil acidity, and nutrient composition play crucial roles in modulating both plant morphology and secondary metabolite biosynthesis. Internally, leaf maturity, organ specificity, and vein color are linked to variable alkaloid profiles, reflecting genetic and developmental influences. Alkaloid biosynthesis is regulated not only by climate and geography but also at the molecular level through gene–environment interactions. Studies across continents and related species further underscore the diversity and adaptability of the genus. These findings suggest that integrated, site-specific agronomic strategies are essential to support kratom’s evolution as a standardized phytopharmaceutical. Limitations: Most existing studies are regionally constrained, lack standardized methodology, and rarely incorporate multi-site or molecular validation, limiting their broader applicability. Directions for future research: Future work should prioritize field-based, multi-environment trials to validate the effects of environmental variables on alkaloid biosynthesis and biomass traits. In addition, controlled environment experiments, genetic profiling, and enzyme-specific biosynthetic studies are essential to refine cultivation protocols and support regulatory frameworks. Integrative agronomic and phytochemical modeling is also needed to guide the development of standardized and high-quality kratom production systems.
Original Article
Ornamental Plants
Lorelyn Joy Noble Turnos-Milagrosa
Abstract
Purpose: Floral preservative vase solutions commonly use citric acid to reduce the pH of water, thereby extending the vase life of cut flowers. This study was conducted to explore the potential of hydrating solutions in extending the vase life of roses and reducing the production of ethylene. Research ...
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Purpose: Floral preservative vase solutions commonly use citric acid to reduce the pH of water, thereby extending the vase life of cut flowers. This study was conducted to explore the potential of hydrating solutions in extending the vase life of roses and reducing the production of ethylene. Research Method: Cut roses were used to evaluate the efficacy of hydrating solutions (calamondin juice, cinnamon and garlic powder extracts and bamboo wood vinegar) and stem cutting every two days to increase the vase life and slow down changes in the visual quality parameters when added in vase solution. Findings: Cut roses subjected to calamondin extract (20 ml/L) had a statistically longer vase life of 11.67 days (37.29% higher than the control), followed by bamboo wood vinegar (9.67 days or 13.76%), while untreated samples had 8.50 days (p value = 0.000). Roses treated with cinnamon powder and ginger extract attained limit of fitness for decoration at Day 8. During the peak of ripening at day 7, calamondin treatments reduced the ethylene concentration by 10.60% and resulted in the highest carbon dioxide (0.87% vol), which was statistically different from the other treatments. Research limitations: No limitations were identified in the study. Originality/Value: The study demonstrated that the addition of calamondin extract significantly slows down deteriorative changes in cut flowers. Given the economic feasibility and widespread availability of calamondin fruits in local markets, this postharvest treatment presents a practical and cost-effective option for flower vendors.
