Biological control as an alternative to synthetic fungicides for the management of grey and blue mould diseases of table grapes: a review

Abstract

Grey and blue mould diseases are among the most important diseases of grapes worldwide. They are causing extensive decay in postharvest grapes. Chemical fungicides remain the primary treatment for managing these diseases. However, consumer’s interest in organic produce, restrictions on chemical use by some countries, and concerns about human and environmental safety have driven research to identify safe and effective alternatives. Among several alternative approaches, the use of biological control agents (BCAs) is getting more acceptance and has been comprehensively studied. This review summarizes the use of BCAs as a postharvest treatment to control the postharvest grey and blue mould of grapes. The review also emphasizes the economic importance of these two major postharvest diseases of grapes. In addition, other non-chemical postharvest treatments, the advantage of an integrated approach and finally problems, challenges, and future trends of the BCAs are described. Several yeasts that have a promising result to control grey and blue mould disease of grapes are thoroughly reviewed. The current market share of BCAs and their future directions on commercialization are also suggested in this review.

• Biocontrols can be a potential control method for postharvest diseases of fruits and vegetables in place of chemical fungicides.

• Antagonistic yeasts have high ability to suppress fungal growth.

• Integrated approach utilizes a combination approaches, which often results in a synergistic effect to control the diseases.

• USA and Europe are currently the largest markets for biocontrol products.

Keywords:

• Grey mould
• blue mould
• biological control agents
• grape
• postharvest disease

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Dr. Lisa Kitinoja (The Postharvest Education Foundation, USA) for her generous support, encouraging feedback and review of this article.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

This review article was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31772369, 31901743), the National key research project (sub project) of China (2016YFD0400902-04), and the Agricultural Independent Innovation Fund in Jiangsu Province (CX (18)2028).