August 13, 2024 | Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety |
Sustainable alternatives for the postharvest control of anthracnose in tropical fruits caused by Colletotrichum spp. were the focus of a review conducted by researchers from the Federal University of Paraíba, Brazil. Anthracnose is a major postharvest disease affecting a wide range of tropical fruits. Traditional control strategies often rely on synthetic fungicides, which contribute to the development of resistant fungal strains and raise concerns about environmental and consumer safety.
This review compiles recent studies from the past five years that investigate innovative, non-chemical approaches to managing Colletotrichum infections. The alternative methods discussed include the application of physical barriers, natural antimicrobial compounds, and biological control using antagonistic microorganisms. These interventions have shown promising results in reducing anthracnose lesion incidence and severity, with some reports achieving total inhibition of disease symptoms under experimental conditions.
Most of the reviewed studies focused on Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in avocado, papaya, and mango, and C. musae in banana, though other species were also examined. Several treatments not only suppressed fungal growth but also induced defense-related enzymatic responses in the fruit, such as increased activity of polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase.
The findings provide an overview of the current state of research and support the continued development of environmentally sustainable strategies for postharvest disease management in tropical fruits.
