August 13, 2024 | Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety |
Research carried out by the Federal University of Paraíba in Brazil examined sustainable alternative approaches to control Colletotrichum spp., a phytopathogen linked to anthracnose in tropical fruits. Traditional methods for managing postharvest diseases rely heavily on synthetic fungicides, which have led to the emergence of resistant strains of pathogens. This review focuses on innovative, environmentally friendly approaches developed in the past five years for mitigating Colletotrichum in tropical fruits.
The study highlights various methods, including physical barriers, natural antimicrobial agents, and biological control using antagonistic microorganisms, which have been effective in reducing anthracnose severity. The literature shows promising in vitro inhibitory activity, with reduced lesion size and disease incidence in fruits such as avocado, papaya, mango, and banana, which are particularly susceptible to Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Colletotrichum musae.
In addition to direct inhibition, these alternative strategies also trigger the fruits' natural defense mechanisms by stimulating enzymatic activities like polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase. The review concludes that sustainable, natural methods for controlling anthracnose offer a promising direction for future research and practical application, aiming to reduce reliance on synthetic fungicides while enhancing postharvest fruit quality.