MICROBIAL CONTROL OF POSTHARVEST DISEASES OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES – CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

Microbial control of postharvest diseases has been one of the most extensively studied alternatives and appears to be a viable technology. Research and development of biological control products for postharvest use has been on a fast track. Several commercial products are already available and others will be available in the near future. The opportunities of successful implementation of this technology are growing as information regarding various aspects related to formulation technology, application, microbial ecology and genetics increases. Currently, the main hurdle facing widespread use of postharvest biocontrol strategies is the decreasing efficacy and lack of consistency found when these methodologies are applied as stand-alone treatments under commercial conditions. The time is ripe to integrate biocontrol agents with one or more physical treatments such as heat treatments controlled and modified atmosphere, natural biocides and food grade preservatives. Such an integrated approach will probably provide adequate control levels, comparable to those achieved with chemical fungicides.