Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Emerging Technologies to Increase Postharvest Life of Fruits and Vegetables

ABSTRACT

The fruits and vegetables are important for the world population due to the nutritional contribution they offer; in addition, its production is relatively less expensive compared to animal foods. The principal strategies to preserve them include the use of aseptic packaging, heat treatments through the application of heat, sub-zero temperatures, application of chemical sanitizers, etc. However, these strategies can be affect the quality of fruits and vegetables. Therefore, there is a constant search and development of strategies in order not only to guarantee safe food but also technologies that can increase their quality (improving their appearance, nutritional contributions, etc.), extend the shelf life and reduce production costs. These technologies are known as “emerging technologies”. Examples of these are high hydrostatic pressure, electromagnetic pulses, ohmic heat, cold plasma, UV rays, use of ozone, edible coatings, packaging systems. Each technology offers many benefits and in some cases limitations that still make it impossible to use it on a large scale. This review shows a broad panorama of the use of emerging technologies to increase the postharvest life of fruits and vegetables, in addition to discussing the advantages, potentials and limitations of their use. Information from conventional technologies is included as a contrast.

KEYWORDS:

• High hydrostatic pressure
• ohmic heat
• postharvest technology
• ultrasound
• shelf life

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.