Agronomy

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5 pages, 724 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceEditorial

Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables for Reducing Food Loss

by Carmit Ziv and Elazar Fallik

Agronomy 2021, 11(6), 1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11061133 - 2 Jun 2021

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 19648

Abstract

Fresh fruits and vegetables have always made an important contribution to the human diet [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

15 pages, 3570 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Gene Expression in 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) Treated Tomatoes during Pre-Climacteric Ripening Suggests Shared Regulation of Methionine Biosynthesis, Ethylene Production and Respiration

by Dan Gamrasni, Ester Feldmesser, Ruth Ben-Arie, Amir Raz, Amit Tabatznik Asiag, Michal Glikman, Asaph Aharoni and Martin Goldway

Agronomy 2020, 10(11), 1669; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10111669 - 29 Oct 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5087

Abstract

The physiology of fruit ripening is defined as either ‘climacteric’ or ‘non-climacteric’. In climacteric fruit respiration during ripening increases until it reaches a peak, which is accompanied by an increase in autocatalytic ethylene production, whereas the respiration of non-climacteric fruit does not increase [...] Read more.

The physiology of fruit ripening is defined as either ‘climacteric’ or ‘non-climacteric’. In climacteric fruit respiration during ripening increases until it reaches a peak, which is accompanied by an increase in autocatalytic ethylene production, whereas the respiration of non-climacteric fruit does not increase and they have no requirement for ethylene to complete their ripening. In an attempt to gain further insight into the involvement of autocatalytic ethylene production with the climacteric rise in respiration, tomato fruit were harvested at three defined stages of maturity prior to the climacteric peak (mature green, breaker, and early orange) and immediately exposed to the gaseous molecule 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP). The gene expression profile at each of these stages was monitored after 24 h, using an Affymetrix tomato microarray chip. This approach enabled us to identify ethylene responsive genes that are commonly regulated at early stages of ripening, as well as new candidate genes. In addition, 1-MCP treatment affected the levels of metabolites related to methionine biosynthesis. Methionine feeds climacteric ethylene production and we found that promotors of the genes of enzymes that catalyze the production of homoserine and homocysteine (aspartokinase/homoserine dehydrogenases and cystathionine beta lyase, respectively), precursors in the methionine pathway, contain the AtSR1 binding motif. This binding motif is recognized by ethylene activated transcription factors, hence indicating a role for ethylene in methionine synthesis during early ripening, explaining the autocatalytic ethylene production during subsequent ripening stages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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25 pages, 5334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stimulation of Light-Emitting Diode Treatment on Defence System and Changes in Mesocarp Metabolites of Avocados Cultivars (Hass and Fuerte) during Simulated Market Shelf Conditions

by Semakaleng Mpai and Dharini Sivakumar

Agronomy 2020, 10(11), 1654; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10111654 - 27 Oct 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3039

Abstract

The ability of light-emitting diode (LED) light treatment to reduce the anthracnose decay via its eliciting effects and thus induce resistance in the avocado (Persea americana), was investigated in this study to replace the current postharvest fungicide treatment. In experiment 1, [...] Read more.

The ability of light-emitting diode (LED) light treatment to reduce the anthracnose decay via its eliciting effects and thus induce resistance in the avocado (Persea americana), was investigated in this study to replace the current postharvest fungicide treatment. In experiment 1, the effect of blue or red LED lights (6 h per day) on the incidence of anthracnose in artificially inoculated (Colletotrichum gloesposorioides) and naturally infected avocados (cv. Fuerte and Hass) at 12–14 °C (simulated market shelf) for 4, 8, 14, and 16 days was investigated. In experiment 2, the effect of blue or red LED lights on the induced defence mechanism, fruit metabolites, antioxidant activity, and percentage of fruit reaching ready-to-eat stage was determined. Exposure to red LED light significantly reduced the anthracnose decay incidence in naturally infected cv. Fuerte on day 12 and in cv. Hass on day 16 compared to the prochloraz fungicide treatment by upregulating the PAL genes and maintaining the epicatechin content. Blue LED light accelerated the ripening in both cultivars, probably due to reduced D-mannoheptulose content. Red LED light exposure for 6 h per day and 12 days storage showed potential to replace the prochloraz treatment with improved ascorbic acid content and antioxidant activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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29 pages, 2791 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effect of Some Citrus Essential Oils on Post-Harvest Shelf Life and Physicochemical Quality of Strawberries during Cold Storage

by Said A. Shehata, Emad A. Abdeldaym, Marwa R. Ali, Reda M. Mohamed, Rwotonen I. Bob and Karima F. Abdelgawad

Agronomy 2020, 10(10), 1466; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10101466 - 25 Sep 2020

Cited by 93 | Viewed by 9521

Abstract

Utilization of essential oils alone or incorporation with edible films is an appropriate technique to conserve the quality attributes and reduce post-harvest deterioration in fresh vegetables and fruits. Strawberries, being perishable fruits have a short shelf life, and using essential oils is considered [...] Read more.

Utilization of essential oils alone or incorporation with edible films is an appropriate technique to conserve the quality attributes and reduce post-harvest deterioration in fresh vegetables and fruits. Strawberries, being perishable fruits have a short shelf life, and using essential oils is considered one of the most suitable methods to prolong their shelf life during storage. The current study assessed the impact of different essential oils, including lemon oil (L), orange oil (O) and mandarin oil (M) on the physicochemical and microbial load of strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa cv. Festival) stored at 2 ± 1 °C and 95% relative humidity (RH) for 18 days. The differences in the physicochemical and microbial properties of strawberries were assessed by determining the following parameter changes: weight loss, decay percentage, firmness, soluble solids content, titratable acidity, color, anthocyanins, vitamin C, total phenol, total antioxidant, catalase activity, polyphenol oxidase activity, sensory evaluation, microbial content, total coliforms, molds, and yeasts. The results of this study indicated that the fruits treated with all essential oils treatments (L, O and M) had higher total antioxidant content and physicochemical properties than untreated fruits, due to protection against the microbial growth of molds, and yeasts. At the end of the storage period, the treated fruits showed a greater acceptance and sensory attributes than the untreated fruits. Furthermore, the correlation study showed a significant and negative relationship between the total antioxidant of treated fruits and following quality attributes including, weight loss, decay percentage, respiration rate soluble solids content, polyphenol oxidase activity, molds, and yeasts. It is noteworthy that all the essential oil treatments extended the shelf-life of strawberries and delayed their deterioration up to 18 days. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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18 pages, 4284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quality and Storability of Trellised Greenhouse-Grown, Winter-Harvested, New Sweet Acorn Squash Hybrids

by Ayobami Adeeko, Fabiola Yudelevich, Ginat Raphael, Lior Avraham, Hana Alon, Merav Zaaroor Presman, Sharon Alkalai-Tuvia, Harry S. Paris, Elazar Fallik and Carmit Ziv

Agronomy 2020, 10(9), 1443; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10091443 - 22 Sep 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3498

Abstract

Acorn squash (Cucurbita pepo) is a familiar fruit vegetable in North America, appreciated for its attractive appearance, good flavor, nutritional content and long storage life. A breeding program in Israel has produced three new acorn squash hybrids of enhanced sweetness and [...] Read more.

Acorn squash (Cucurbita pepo) is a familiar fruit vegetable in North America, appreciated for its attractive appearance, good flavor, nutritional content and long storage life. A breeding program in Israel has produced three new acorn squash hybrids of enhanced sweetness and flavor. Presently, we evaluated productivity, quality, and storability of these new cultivars in fall plantings. The plants were grown trellised, in an insect-proof greenhouse, for fruit production during the winter to meet consumer demand. The plants were highly productive and bore fruits of superb quality, but there was a high incidence of fungal rots during postharvest cold storage. Pre-treating the fruits with hot water brushing and rinsing before storage was found effective in reducing rot incidence of the fruits stored at 15 °C, but only for one cultivar. Storing the fruits at 10 °C with reduced humidity (Rh 70%) enabled a 3-month shelf life with significantly reduced fruit-rot incidence and minimal effect on fruit quality of all three cultivars. Storage at 20 °C with reduced humidity was suitable for a 1-month period. These protocols for prolonging storage life will help attain controlled, gradual year-round marketing of quality acorn squash at uniform, reasonable price levels for farmers and consumers, and could facilitate overseas export. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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10 pages, 236 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extended Storage of Yellow Pepper Fruits at Suboptimal Temperatures May Alter Their Physical and Nutritional Quality

by Kumar Lama, Sharon Alkalai-Tuvia, Daniel Chalupowicz and Elazar Fallik

Agronomy 2020, 10(8), 1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10081109 - 31 Jul 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3121

Abstract

Yellow sweet peppers (Capsicum annuum L. cv. Dinamo) are generally more susceptible than red sweet peppers to physiological and pathological deterioration after harvest. Yellow peppers also fetch higher prices at market. In this study, we examined the external and nutritional quality attributes [...] Read more.

Yellow sweet peppers (Capsicum annuum L. cv. Dinamo) are generally more susceptible than red sweet peppers to physiological and pathological deterioration after harvest. Yellow peppers also fetch higher prices at market. In this study, we examined the external and nutritional quality attributes of yellow pepper fruits stored at suboptimal temperatures of 1.5 and 4 °C for 3 weeks, followed by a 3-day shelf-life simulation. Notably, yellow peppers kept in plastic (Xtend^®, Stepac, Tefen, Israel) bags at 4 °C maintained their external quality just as well as peppers stored at the optimum temperature of 7 °C. In addition, nutrient content (namely ascorbic acid) and total phenolic and hydrophilic antioxidant contents were not reduced when the peppers were kept at suboptimal storage temperatures of 4 or 1.5 °C in Xtend^® plastic packaging. Thus, the external and nutritional qualities of yellow pepper fruits can be preserved at suboptimal temperatures of 4 °C with Xtend^® plastic packaging. This is particularly significant in light of the fact that storage at such temperatures is sometimes used as a quarantine method to eliminate pests on produce imported into Israel. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

10 pages, 2120 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Browning of Early and Late-Harvested ‘Empire’ Apples Affected by Cold Storage and 1-MCP

by Seok-Kyu Jung and Hyun-Sug Choi

Agronomy 2020, 10(7), 1050; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10071050 - 21 Jul 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3089

Abstract

The effects of harvest time, 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and air storage time on the susceptibility of flesh browning in ‘Empire’ apples were studied during a seven-day shelf life period after air storage at 0.5 °C for seven months. Early- or late-harvested ‘Empire’ apples without [...] Read more.

The effects of harvest time, 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and air storage time on the susceptibility of flesh browning in ‘Empire’ apples were studied during a seven-day shelf life period after air storage at 0.5 °C for seven months. Early- or late-harvested ‘Empire’ apples without 1-MCP increased production of ethylene, respiration rates and internal ethylene concentration during the shelf life. Respiration rates increased in the late-harvested fruit for the shelf life period with/without 1-MCP treatment. The 1-MCP-treated fruit was approximately 10 N firmer than fruit not treated with 1-MCP at an early harvest for the entire shelf life duration. Peroxidase activity and percent change in electrical conductivity in the flesh were elevated in late-harvested fruit for the shelf life duration, whereas polyphenol oxidase activities were found to be stimulated by 1-MCP treatment, regardless of harvest time. Late-harvested fruit treated with 1-MCP exhibited increased susceptibility to flesh browning during shelf life, mostly due to reduction of the antioxidant defense mechanism of the fruits to stress in extending storage life, increasing polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity and electrolyte leakage rate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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21 pages, 2102 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficacy of Edible Coatings in Alleviating Shrivel and Maintaining Quality of Japanese Plum (Prunus salicina Lindl.) during Export and Shelf Life Conditions

by Olaniyi Amos Fawole, Shannon Claudia Riva and Umezuruike Linus Opara

Agronomy 2020, 10(7), 1023; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10071023 - 16 Jul 2020

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5490

Abstract

The effect of six edible coatings were investigated on the ability to alleviate shrivel and extend shelf life of plums. Fruit were subjected to a simulated shipping period (−0.5 ± 2 °C and 90 ± 5% relative humidity (RH)) for five weeks and [...] Read more.

The effect of six edible coatings were investigated on the ability to alleviate shrivel and extend shelf life of plums. Fruit were subjected to a simulated shipping period (−0.5 ± 2 °C and 90 ± 5% relative humidity (RH)) for five weeks and a subsequent shelf life period (20 ± 2 °C and 80 ± 5% RH) for 20 d. Overall, the study showed that it is possible to alleviate shrivel and also extend shelf life of plum (‘African Delight™’) at export and shelf life conditions. Amongst the edible coatings investigated, the findings in fruit coated with gum arabic and the commercial products were comparable and promising for postharvest preservation of the investigated plum cultivar. The coatings showed a moderate delay of fruit ripening, significantly reduced weight loss and shrivel development, allowing for the export of fruit over a long distance (five weeks) and up to 20 d of shelf life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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12 pages, 4098 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Red Color and Fruit Quality of ‘Kent’ Mango Fruit by Pruning and Preharvest Spraying of Prohydrojasmon or Abscisic Acid

by Sudheeran Pradeep Kumar, Dalia Maurer, Oleg Feygenberg, Cliff Love and Noam Alkan

Agronomy 2020, 10(7), 944; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10070944 - 1 Jul 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6967

Abstract

Pre-harvest application of prohydrojasmon (PDJ) or abscisic acid (ABA) induces the red color in fruits that were exposed to sunlight at the orchard. In this large-scale work, we evaluated the effect of two different pruning techniques of ‘Kent’ mango orchards, one leading to [...] Read more.

Pre-harvest application of prohydrojasmon (PDJ) or abscisic acid (ABA) induces the red color in fruits that were exposed to sunlight at the orchard. In this large-scale work, we evaluated the effect of two different pruning techniques of ‘Kent’ mango orchards, one leading to opening the orchard canopy to expose as much fruit as possible to sunlight, while the second pruning leads to square-shaped trees and subsequently reduces the amount of sunlight reaching the fruit. These two pruning methods were combined with preharvest spraying with prohydrojasmon (PDJ) or abscisic acid (ABA) using two different types of sprayers, i.e., regular and air-jet sprayer. Pruning the canopy of the orchards to open and closed trees exposed 80% or 30% of fruits to sunlight, respectively. Both of the application with air-jet and regular sprayers effectively covered the fruit without causing fruit detachment and damage to yield. Both the phytohormones (PDJ and ABA) application treatments induced red blush skin, red intensity, anthocyanin, and flavonoids, particularly in fruit grown outside the tree canopy in both open and closed trees. PDJ and ABA treatments exhibited marginally reduced acidity than the untreated control, while the brix was not affected much by any of the treatments. Besides these, exposure to sunlight and PDJ treatment also reduced postharvest decay and increased chlorophyll degradation and yellowing in comparison to the controls. This study promoted applicative evidence about the positive effects of exposure to sunlight, prohydrojasmon (PDJ), and abscisic acid (ABA) on red color development without compromising the mango fruit’s quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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14 pages, 813 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tree-Ripe Mango Fruit: Physicochemical Characterization, Antioxidant Properties and Sensory Profile of Six Mediterranean-Grown Cultivars

by Vittorio Farina, Carla Gentile, Giuseppe Sortino, Giuseppe Gianguzzi, Eristanna Palazzolo and Agata Mazzaglia

Agronomy 2020, 10(6), 884; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10060884 - 19 Jun 2020

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 6496

Abstract

Some of the key components that contribute to the acceptance of high-quality fresh mangoes by consumers are its flavour, odour, texture and chemical constituents that depend mainly on level of maturity. In the European market, the demand for tree-ripened fruit has increased in [...] Read more.

Some of the key components that contribute to the acceptance of high-quality fresh mangoes by consumers are its flavour, odour, texture and chemical constituents that depend mainly on level of maturity. In the European market, the demand for tree-ripened fruit has increased in recent decades. Nevertheless, the qualitative response and the marketable characteristics of tree-ripened mango fruit grown in the Mediterranean area are not yet studied. Tree-ripened fruits of cv Keitt, Glenn, Osteen, Maya, Kensington Pride and Tommy Atkins were submitted to analytical (fruit weight, transversal diameter, longitudinal diameter, flesh firmness, total soluble solid content, titratable acidity, seed weight, peel weight, percentage of flesh and fibre, ash content, fat content, carbohydrate content, riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, K, Na, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Mn and Zn contents, ascorbic acid and vitamin A) and sensory evaluations. Significant differences were observed for sensory and physicochemical characteristics in a cultivar-dependent manner. The mango Keitt, in addition to its interesting physicochemical traits, content of protein and vitamin, has a higher sensory appeal. Glenn fruit showed more suitable weight, flesh firmness, soluble solids, vitamin content, total antioxidant activity and total polyphenolics content; Maya had the lowest titratable acidity and the highest soluble solid content, whereas Tommy Atkins revealed preferable ground colour, total antioxidant activity, and vitamin B2 and vitamin C contents. Tree-ripened fruits grown in the Mediterranean climate show interesting peculiarities in regard to fresh market requirements. The analytical-sensory approach established a qualitative characterization of the six observed cultivars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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10 pages, 255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Controlled Atmosphere Storage Conditions on the Chemical Composition of Super Hardy Kiwifruit

by Aurelija Paulauskienė, Živilė Tarasevičienė, Audronė Žebrauskienė and Irena Pranckietienė

Agronomy 2020, 10(6), 822; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10060822 - 9 Jun 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3770

Abstract

Super hardy kiwifruit [Actinidia kolomikta (Maxim. & Rupr.) Maxim.] accumulate large amounts of biologically active compounds, but it is possible to store ripe fruit for a very short time, only 2 weeks at 0–5 °C. Therefore, it is necessary to determine optimal [...] Read more.

Super hardy kiwifruit [Actinidia kolomikta (Maxim. & Rupr.) Maxim.] accumulate large amounts of biologically active compounds, but it is possible to store ripe fruit for a very short time, only 2 weeks at 0–5 °C. Therefore, it is necessary to determine optimal storage conditions to prolong fruit storage time. The aim of this research was to analyse changes in the basic chemical composition of fruit during ripening in controlled atmosphere chambers. Fruit was stored for 6 weeks at a constant temperature (0 °C) and humidity (90%) in different air compositions (No. 1—21% O₂, 78% N₂; No. 2—0.5% O₂, 98.5% N₂, 1% CO₂; No. 3—1.5% O₂, 95.5% N₂, 3% CO₂; No. 4—2% O₂, 93% N₂, 5% CO₂). The chemical composition of the fruit was determined at harvest, after 2, 4 and 6 weeks of storage. Dry matter, soluble solids, ascorbic acid, total chlorophyll and carotenoid contents were analysed. The greatest increase in the contents of dry matter and soluble solids after 6 weeks of storage was found in the chamber where O₂ was 2% and CO₂ was 5%. The ascorbic acid content decreased during the fruit ripening process regardless of the air composition. Most of the ascorbic acid remained in fruit stored in the chamber with 1.5% O₂ and 3% CO₂. The concentration of total chlorophyll and total carotenoids in the fruit increased as development progressed. The different air parameters in the storage chambers had different effects on the synthesis of pigments in fruit, but the content of pigments increased most in fruit stored in the chamber with atmospheric parameters 0.5% O₂ + 1% CO₂. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

19 pages, 1892 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Harvest Season and Genotype Affect Head Quality and Shelf-Life of Ready-to-Use Broccoli

by Giulia Conversa, Corrado Lazzizera, Anna Bonasia and Antonio Elia

Agronomy 2020, 10(4), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10040527 - 7 Apr 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3161

Abstract

Pre-harvest climatic conditions and genotype may have important effects on head quality and post-harvest performance of fresh-cut broccoli. The present work evaluates the effect of the growing cycle (summer–autumn (SA), winter (W), winter–spring (WS), and spring (S)) and genotype on qualitative (dry matter, [...] Read more.

Pre-harvest climatic conditions and genotype may have important effects on head quality and post-harvest performance of fresh-cut broccoli. The present work evaluates the effect of the growing cycle (summer–autumn (SA), winter (W), winter–spring (WS), and spring (S)) and genotype on qualitative (dry matter, concentration of chlorophylls, carotenoids, and color) and antioxidative (ascorbic acid, dehydroascorbic acid, total phenol concentrations, and antioxidant capacity) traits of broccoli heads and minimally processed florets. The WS raw product showed the best color indices (L* = 38.6, C* = 9.3 and h° = 123.8) as well as the highest chlorophyll (0.23 µg mg⁻¹ fresh weight) but the lowest total phenol concentration (5.5 µg mg⁻¹ dry weight - DW), whereas the ascorbic acid level (2.3 µg mg⁻¹ DW) was comparable to or lower than that the other growing cycles. The WS florets confirmed their best visual quality, even showing an improved total phenol level after 14 days of cold storage. The climatic conditions experienced by broccoli plants grown in SA, W, and S periods were stressful as they resulted in a slight reduction in the visual quality of the heads, though only the SA florets showed a distinctive decay during storage. The lower post-harvest performance of SA grown broccoli was confirmed in all the tested cultivars, despite ‘Naxos’ seeming more tolerant. On the contrary, the greatest content of ascorbic acid (3.2 µg mg⁻¹ DW) in the W heads and of phenols (11.1 µg mg⁻¹ DW) in S heads was maintained during storage, thus preserving floret color. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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17 pages, 3520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Wound-Healing Management on Potato Post-Harvest Storability

by Yi Wang, Mack R. Naber and Trevor W. Crosby

Agronomy 2020, 10(4), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10040512 - 3 Apr 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5714

Abstract

A critical step in profitable post-harvest potato storage management is to cure tubers at appropriate temperatures long enough for rapid wound-healing to prevent disease and defect development, but not too long to jeopardize storage quality. A two-year storage study was conducted in macro-storage [...] Read more.

A critical step in profitable post-harvest potato storage management is to cure tubers at appropriate temperatures long enough for rapid wound-healing to prevent disease and defect development, but not too long to jeopardize storage quality. A two-year storage study was conducted in macro-storage totes at the University of Wisconsin Hancock storage research facility to evaluate the effects of higher wound-healing temperatures (15.6 °C, 18.3 °C) imposed for different durations, and compare them to the U.S. potato industry’s standard practice (12.8 °C), on weight loss and frying quality of multiple processing potato varieties during long-term storage. It was found that in the experimental setting of this study, warmer wound-healing temperatures resulted in (1) less weight loss, particularly during the early storage season across varieties; (2) ameliorated senescent sweetening of the Snowden variety; (3) improved fry quality of the Russet Burbank variety; (4) and no apparent disease spread during long-term storage if tubers were harvested healthy out of fields. Overall, no significant difference was found between 15.6 °C and 18.3 °C regarding their treatment effects. Our conclusion is that compared to the current standard practice, higher wound-healing temperatures may have the potential benefits of improving potato storage quality while reducing the economic penalty associated with weight loss for specific varieties, but tubers should be healthy at harvest in order to gain the benefits. Further research is needed to test if those benefits of higher wound-healing temperatures hold true in large-scale commercial storage facilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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13 pages, 2494 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Pre- and Postharvest Factors Control the Disease Incidence of Superficial Scald in the New Fire Blight Tolerant Apple Variety “Ladina”

by Laura Juliana Dällenbach, Thomas Eppler, Simone Bühlmann-Schütz, Markus Kellerhals and Andreas Bühlmann

Agronomy 2020, 10(4), 464; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10040464 - 27 Mar 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3997

Abstract

Superficial scald is a physiological disorder that develops during cold storage affecting apples and causes substantial market losses. Malus × domestica cv. Ladina, a new scab resistant and fire blight tolerant variety, commercialized in 2012, shows a physiological disorder similar to superficial scald [...] Read more.

Superficial scald is a physiological disorder that develops during cold storage affecting apples and causes substantial market losses. Malus × domestica cv. Ladina, a new scab resistant and fire blight tolerant variety, commercialized in 2012, shows a physiological disorder similar to superficial scald after storage. Here, we used different pre- and postharvest approaches to characterize the occurrence of these superficial scald symptoms in Malus × domestica cv. Ladina. Over a period of seven years, fruits from multiple orchards were stored for five to seven months and the occurrence of superficial scald was assessed in fruits after cold storage and controlled atmosphere (CA) storage. Apples picked at different stages of ripeness within the same year differed in superficial scald development. Additionally, superficial scald differed significantly between years and locations, strongly suggesting that maturity at harvest, weather during the growing season, and orchard management play important roles in scald occurrence. Treatment with 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) after harvest, and storage in a dynamically controlled atmosphere (DCA) significantly reduced the occurrence of superficial scald, whereas storage under ultralow oxygen concentrations (ULO) showed mild but not significant effects. Low calcium concentrations in the fruit flesh and peel were associated with stronger superficial scald occurrence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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11 pages, 2099 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Pre-Harvest Factors on Postharvest Quality of Fresh-Cut and Baby Leafy Vegetables

by Athanasios Koukounaras, Filippos Bantis, Nikolaos Karatolos, Christos Melissas and Antonios Vezyroglou

Agronomy 2020, 10(2), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10020172 - 25 Jan 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 6146

Abstract

Shelf life of horticultural commodities is dependent on postharvest handling but also on a wide range of pre-harvest factors, which include genetic and environmental parameters. This study was conducted to explore the influence of cultivar, leaf position, and piece position on the leaf [...] Read more.

Shelf life of horticultural commodities is dependent on postharvest handling but also on a wide range of pre-harvest factors, which include genetic and environmental parameters. This study was conducted to explore the influence of cultivar, leaf position, and piece position on the leaf on visual quality of fresh-cut butterhead lettuce as well as the effect of a wide range of cultivation seasons on the postharvest quality and shelf life of baby leaves (spinach and ‘wild’ rocket). Six butterhead lettuce cultivars were used (cultivated soilless in an unheated plastic greenhouse) while the effect of leaf position on the plant (outer and inner leaves) and the piece position on the leaf (piece one close to the leaf base and piece four close to the top) were also evaluated. Baby leaves were cultivated under an unheated plastic greenhouse for winter production and under a nethouse for the rest of the growing season, with a total of five and seven sampling dates for spinach and ‘wild’ rocket respectively. The cultivar of butterhead lettuce had a significant effect on postharvest quality of fresh-cut product but more important was the piece position on the leaf. When this was closer to the base of the leaf, there was more browning on cut edges and limited shelf life for the fresh-cut lettuce. The result was associated in one tested cultivar with PAL activity, which was higher by 106% for piece one compared to piece four as an average for the whole storage period. The growing season of baby leaves had a great impact on their shelf life, with the season of mild environmental conditions achieving the highest marketability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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15 pages, 247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Salicylic Acid and Putrescine to Reduce Post-Harvest Storage Problems and Maintain Quality of Murcott Mandarin Fruit

by Hassan A. Ennab, Mervat A. El-Shemy and Shamel M. Alam-Eldein

Agronomy 2020, 10(1), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10010115 - 13 Jan 2020

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 5830

Abstract

Natural products have been used to improve citrus fruit quality and storability, which increase the fruit marketing period and exportation to distant markets. This study was conducted to evaluate the role of salicylic acid and putrescine on reducing post-harvest loss and maintaining the [...] Read more.

Natural products have been used to improve citrus fruit quality and storability, which increase the fruit marketing period and exportation to distant markets. This study was conducted to evaluate the role of salicylic acid and putrescine on reducing post-harvest loss and maintaining the quality of stored Murcott mandarin. Fruit were harvested at 297–300 days from full bloom, and five 5-min dipping treatments were applied; salicylic acid (200 and 400 ppm), putrescine (50 and 100 ppm), and the control. One group of fruit was stored at 5 ± 1 °C and 90–95% relative humidity (RH), and the other group was stored at 23 ± 1 °C and 60–70% RH for 45 days. Quality attributes were recorded at harvest, 15, 30, and 45 days of storage. Weight loss and decay were significantly decreased with the application of salicylic acid and putrescine. Both materials were also effective maintaining fruit firmness, total soluble solids (TSS), acidity, TSS: acid ratio, and ascorbic acid during storage. Salicylic acid, especially at 400 ppm was more effective to reduce weight loss and decay, and to maintain fruit quality in comparison to putrescine treatments. It could be concluded that salicylic acid and putrescine are effectively delaying post-harvest deterioration rate and extending the storage period of Murcott mandarin fruit with acceptable quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

11 pages, 1067 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of ULO and NA Storage on Changes in the Quality of Apple Fruit (Malus domestica Borkh.) during Shelf Life

by Aleksandra Korićanac, Nemanja Miletić, Branko Popović, Olga Mitrović, Milan Lukić, Marijana Pešaković and Jelena Tomić

Agronomy 2020, 10(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10010025 - 23 Dec 2019

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4686

Abstract

In order to preserve the quality of apple fruit, it is crucial to choose the most suitable storage technology. Nevertheless, it is also important to maintain the quality of apples during the shelf life period. In this study, changes in various biochemical quality [...] Read more.

In order to preserve the quality of apple fruit, it is crucial to choose the most suitable storage technology. Nevertheless, it is also important to maintain the quality of apples during the shelf life period. In this study, changes in various biochemical quality parameters of ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Idared’ apples during a prolonged shelf life period, after conventional normal atmosphere (NA) and ultra-low oxygen (ULO) storage, were investigated. After the harvest, the fruit of examined cultivars were stored in two atmospheres for six months. Weight loss, changes in content of sugars, organic acids, total phenols, total flavonoids, pectic fractions, and antioxidant capacity were monitored. Samples were evaluated immediately after removal from the cold chambers and after 10 and 20 days of shelf life at 20 °C. ‘Golden Delicious’ apples stored in ULO exhibited better qualitative characteristics during 20 days of shelf life compared with apples of the same cultivar stored in NA. However, evaluated traits in ‘Idared’ apples from NA chambers were of higher quality in comparison with ‘Idared’ apples stored in the ULO atmosphere. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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17 pages, 1423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Residual Distribution Kinetics of Pesticides in Cherry Tomato Peel, Pulp, and Fruit as a Function of Irrigation Water Salinity, Household Rinsing, and Storage Regimen

by Jakob A. Shimshoni, Vijayakumar Bommuraj, Yaira Chena, Roy Sperling, Shimon Barel, Yuval Kaye and Elazar Fallik

Agronomy 2019, 9(12), 800; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9120800 - 24 Nov 2019

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3609

Abstract

The increased demand of high quantity and quality of cherry tomatoes requires the application of a wide range of pre-harvest pesticides. The application of dozens of pre-harvest pesticides frequently results in multiple pesticide residues, to which the end consumer is exposed. Incorrect usage [...] Read more.

The increased demand of high quantity and quality of cherry tomatoes requires the application of a wide range of pre-harvest pesticides. The application of dozens of pre-harvest pesticides frequently results in multiple pesticide residues, to which the end consumer is exposed. Incorrect usage of these pesticides may result in hazardous food contamination and therefore, it is crucial to monitor pesticide residues in pre- and post-marketed agricultural commodities. Hence, the objectives of the present study were to characterize the distribution and residual levels of pre-harvest pesticides applied on cherry tomatoes, as a function of regulated storage conditions, irrigation water salinity levels, and tap water rinsing. The fruits were grown in a greenhouse and were designated for the local and international markets. The residual pesticide levels allowed us to perform a dietary risk assessment for the consumption of contaminated tomatoes. Tetraconazole was the only pesticide residue, exceeding the maximal residue limit (MRL) value of 50 µg/kg in the fruits after 5 days of storage time. Since tetraconazole was shown to potentially impair reproduction and fetal development, it is suggested that the last application of this pesticide would be restricted to not less than 56 days before harvest. The extent of pesticide peel penetrability as well as the pesticide distribution and residual levels in the peel and pulp were unaffected by the salinity level (electrical conductivity 1.5–3 ds/m) of the irrigation water. The most commonly applied household washing procedure for fruit and vegetables, using running tap water for 30 s, was ineffective in removing residual pesticides from the peel. Hence, more efficient washing procedures are required to improve consumers’ safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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16 pages, 2205 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sage Essential Oil Improves the Effectiveness of Aloe vera Gel on Postharvest Quality of Tomato Fruit

by Nikolaos Tzortzakis, Panayiota Xylia and Antonios Chrysargyris

Agronomy 2019, 9(10), 635; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9100635 - 14 Oct 2019

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 5668

Abstract

Edible coating is extensively applied for fresh produce preservation. In the present study, Aloe vera gel (AV) alone or combined with sage essential oil (EO; 0.1% or 0.5%) was used as fruit edible coating in tomatoes. Following treatments, tomatoes were stored at 11 [...] Read more.

Edible coating is extensively applied for fresh produce preservation. In the present study, Aloe vera gel (AV) alone or combined with sage essential oil (EO; 0.1% or 0.5%) was used as fruit edible coating in tomatoes. Following treatments, tomatoes were stored at 11 °C and 90% relative humidity (RH) up to 14 days and analyzed for quality maintenance compared with uncoated fruits (control). Results showed that both AV and EO decreased decay symptoms with more pronounced effects on low EO concentration (i.e., 0.1%). The application of 10% of AV coating decreased fruit ethylene emission while EO (0.1% and 0.5%) application increased ethylene emission and respiration rates. AV coating decreased acidity, β-carotene, lycopene content and maintained fruit firmness. High levels of EO (0.5%) increased weight loss but decreased fruits’ redness, chroma, total soluble solids, acidity, β-carotene and lycopene content. Total phenolic content and antioxidants maintained or increased during storage when treated with AV and/or EO. Low levels of EO (0.1%) maintained or improved fruit quality characteristics during storage, and this was mirrored by the sensory evaluation preference (including the AV application) and quality related attributes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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9 pages, 236 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperCommunication

Relationships between Rootstock-Scion Combinations and Growing Regions on Watermelon Fruit Quality

by Elazar Fallik, Sharon Alkalai-Tuvia, Daniel Chalupowicz, Sigal Popovsky-Sarid and Merav Zaaroor-Presman

Agronomy 2019, 9(9), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9090536 - 11 Sep 2019

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2963

Abstract

Grafting of vegetable plants is done primarily to reduce the potential for damage caused by soil-borne diseases. Most of the watermelons (Citrullus) grown in the Mediterranean Basin, including in Israel, are grafted, mainly on interspecific hybrid pumpkin (Cucurbita) rootstocks. [...] Read more.

Grafting of vegetable plants is done primarily to reduce the potential for damage caused by soil-borne diseases. Most of the watermelons (Citrullus) grown in the Mediterranean Basin, including in Israel, are grafted, mainly on interspecific hybrid pumpkin (Cucurbita) rootstocks. Biblical law (Leviticus 19:19) does not allow intergeneric grafting, so in recent years, great efforts have been made in Israel to find or breed watermelon rootstocks. Both interspecific and intergeneric grafting can have negative or positive effects on fruit yield and quality after harvest. The inconsistencies in fruit quality and shelf-life parameters can be attributed to differences in production environments. However, many farmers are grafting and planting the same rootstock-scion combination all over the country, regardless of local soil, water, and climactic conditions. We studied the effect of similar rootstock-scion combinations on watermelon yield and fruit quality in three regions of Israel differing in soil type and altitude. Fruit-quality parameters were evaluated after 4 days at 21 °C (local marketing simulation). Fruit quality was significantly affected, mainly by the growing region, based on factorial analysis, but also by rootstock-scion combination, regardless of rootstock vigor. Therefore, the best rootstock-scion combination needs to be found and adopted for each growing region. Grafting was essential for watermelon crop survival in contaminated soils and improved both plant performance and postharvest fruit quality, but was not a factor in non-contaminated soils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

16 pages, 1316 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Two Types of Antioxidant Compounds (TPC and TA) from Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.): Optimization of the Individual and Simultaneous Extraction Methods

by Mercedes Vázquez-Espinosa, Ana V. González-de-Peredo, Estrella Espada-Bellido, Marta Ferreiro-González, Juan José Toledo-Domínguez, Ceferino Carrera, Miguel Palma and Gerardo F. Barbero

Agronomy 2019, 9(8), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9080456 - 15 Aug 2019

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4382

Abstract

Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) contains a large number of bioactive compounds, which make of it a highly nutritional and antioxidant food with anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been recently seen its consumption increased because of its interesting composition and properties as [...] Read more.

Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) contains a large number of bioactive compounds, which make of it a highly nutritional and antioxidant food with anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been recently seen its consumption increased because of its interesting composition and properties as a functional food. The ultrasound-assisted extraction method has been optimized, since it is a simple and fast technique to extract phenolic compounds, as well as anthocyanins, not only separately but also simultaneously. Multiple response has been optimized and demonstrated an effectiveness level similar to the individual ones. This represents a considerable reduction in costs, time and work. The optimal conditions for simultaneous extractions were: 54% methanol as extraction solvent at pH 2.72 and 69.4 °C temperature, 70% amplitude, 0.7 s cycle, and 0.5:18.2 g:mL sample mass/solvent volume ratio. The developed methods showed a high precision level with coefficients of variation lower than 5%. The methods were successfully applied to commercial samples. Additionally, the extraction of other compounds of biological interest, such as organic acids and sugars, was also studied. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

21 pages, 365 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Extension of Avocado Fruit Postharvest Quality Using Non-Chemical Treatments

by Karen Munhuweyi, Semakaleng Mpai and Dharini Sivakumar

Agronomy 2020, 10(2), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10020212 - 2 Feb 2020

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 16195

Abstract

Developing postharvest management techniques using environmentally friendly and non-chemical approaches is key to extending the shelf life of avocados in a safer and health conscious manner. Avocados are prone to postharvest deterioration caused by mechanical damage, chilling injury, soft landing, uneven ripening and [...] Read more.

Developing postharvest management techniques using environmentally friendly and non-chemical approaches is key to extending the shelf life of avocados in a safer and health conscious manner. Avocados are prone to postharvest deterioration caused by mechanical damage, chilling injury, soft landing, uneven ripening and decay. Among the different cultivars of avocados commercially grown worldwide, the ‘Hass’ variety continues to be the most predominant due to its nutty flavour and functional properties. Most of the literature on postharvest decay and disorders affecting avocado fruit quality during storage and marketing is dedicated to the Hass avocado. Some of these postharvest problems are unique to the ‘Hass’ avocado can possibly be controlled by simply investing more research into other cultivars. These postharvest losses can be significantly controlled using eco-friendly technologies, such as modified atmosphere, physical heat treatments and most importantly investing in natural biodegradable products with naturally inherent antimicrobial properties. Thus, this review includes the recent research-based information on the use of non-chemical treatments on the improvement of fruit health and quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Storage Techniques and Quality Evaluation of Fruits and Vegetables)

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