Articles
ADVANCES IN IMPROVING THE POSTHARVEST QUALITY OF PEARS
Article number
475_63
Pages
513 – 526
Language
Abstract
The principal advance in pear postharvest science in recent years has been the recognition of the need for integration of diverse factors, which cumulatively improve fruit quality during storage.
Pre-harvest factors, including crop load management, irrigation, nutritional management (especially N and Ca) and fruit maturity, affect both fruit quality and susceptibility to postharvest diseases.
Fruit responses to very low oxygen levels and the effects of low O2 and high CO2 on ethylene pathways and fruit ripening have been identified, as well as the length of time pear fruit can tolerate near-anaerobic conditions and postharvest treatments against quarantined pests.
Several species of yeast and bacteria have been found to aid in the control of postharvest pathogens.
Laboratory grown yeasts Cryptococcus laurentii, C. infirmo-miniatus, and Rhodotorula glutinis have given excellent control of blue mold decay caused by either TBZ-sensitive or TBZ-resistant strains of Penicillium expansum. These experimental yeasts and the biocontrol products Aspire and Bio-Save 110, which are registered for use on pear in the U.S.A., are compatible with TBZ, with the exception of R. glutinis. Integration of pre-harvest factors, postharvest biological and chemical treatments, and optimum use of storage atmosphere can maximize retention of pear fruit quality during storage.
Pre-harvest factors, including crop load management, irrigation, nutritional management (especially N and Ca) and fruit maturity, affect both fruit quality and susceptibility to postharvest diseases.
Fruit responses to very low oxygen levels and the effects of low O2 and high CO2 on ethylene pathways and fruit ripening have been identified, as well as the length of time pear fruit can tolerate near-anaerobic conditions and postharvest treatments against quarantined pests.
Several species of yeast and bacteria have been found to aid in the control of postharvest pathogens.
Laboratory grown yeasts Cryptococcus laurentii, C. infirmo-miniatus, and Rhodotorula glutinis have given excellent control of blue mold decay caused by either TBZ-sensitive or TBZ-resistant strains of Penicillium expansum. These experimental yeasts and the biocontrol products Aspire and Bio-Save 110, which are registered for use on pear in the U.S.A., are compatible with TBZ, with the exception of R. glutinis. Integration of pre-harvest factors, postharvest biological and chemical treatments, and optimum use of storage atmosphere can maximize retention of pear fruit quality during storage.
Publication
Authors
D. Sugar, D.G. Richardson, P.M. Chen, R.A. Spotts, R.G. Roberts, T. Chand-Goyal
Keywords
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