November 13, 2025 | Natural Products | Kouadio
Postharvest disease control in pineapple (Ananas comosus), with emphasis on internal browning and black spot caused by Fusarium moniliforme, was the focus of a study conducted by Université Peleforo Gon Coulibaly, Côte d’Ivoire. These disorders significantly reduce fruit quality and market value, creating a need for effective and sustainable management approaches.
The study evaluated both preharvest and postharvest interventions to mitigate disease development while maintaining fruit quality and phytochemical properties. Results indicated that appropriate agricultural practices, including optimized irrigation and the use of resistant varieties, play an important role in reducing disease incidence. Conventional fungicide treatments, such as benomyl, showed limited and inconsistent effectiveness. In contrast, biocontrol approaches, including the application of elicitors such as methyl jasmonate and polyphenols, were more effective in enhancing the fruit’s natural defense mechanisms against fungal infection.
Postharvest storage techniques, including controlled atmosphere storage and heat treatments, were also found to delay the onset of browning and preserve fruit quality. Overall, the study highlights that integrating biocontrol strategies with improved storage technologies provides a more sustainable approach to managing postharvest diseases. These findings support the development of reduced-chemical systems that enhance fruit quality and competitiveness in international markets.
