Keys to good post-harvest disease control

DECCO IBERICA explains that during the postharvest period, fruits and vegetables can be affected by the attack of different micro-organisms, such as fungi and bacteria, which worsen their yield and quality. Each of these pathogenic organisms has a different effect on the fruit, but the most common consequences of these post-harvest diseases are:- Rot- Spoilage- Loss of flavour- Bad smells The longer the fruits are stored, the higher the probability of contracting one of these diseases, since the synthesis capacity of the natural substances that protect them against these diseases decreases. Some of the most common post-harvest diseases are the following:- Penicillium Digitatum y Penicillium Italicum- Alternaria Alternata- Botrytis Cinerea- Geotrichum Candidum- Phytophthora Citrophthora- Phomopsis- Diplodia- Rhizopus spp In order to prevent the appearance of this type of diseases, it is necessary to watch different aspects such as fruit preservation, cleaning and hygiene measures and conditioning treatments both in storage and in the chamber, among others. Post-harvest products to combat diseasesThere is currently a wide range of products on the market focused on solving the main post-harvest problems. Therefore, one of the main recommendations to keep postharvest free of pathologies and other diseases is to select the most suitable ones for each of the tasks and stages that take place during the whole postharvest cycle. Cleaning and disinfection productsOptimal washing and disinfection of postharvest fruits and vegetables is an absolute must to keep harmful fungi and micro-organisms at bay. There are many high quality products that improve the washing and disinfection process of both foodstuffs and facilities, helping to remove dirt, dust, grit and any other residues that may favour the development of fungi, parasites and organisms. If not controlled in time, the massive presence of these pathogens leads to the appearance of serious diseases in the fruit. The washing processes, as well as the products to be used, vary depending on the type of fruit, vegetables or other vegetables to be treated. Hence the importance of always choosing the best option, seeking advice from specialised professionals and trusting in expert companies such as Decco Ibérica.