Nanotechnology-Based Advancements in Postharvest Management of Horticultural Crops

Abstract

Horticulture is a branch of Agricultural science where it is defined as the science and art of cultivating and handling fruits, vegetables, ornamental plants and several plants having unique medicinal and aromatic values. Horticultural crops provide farmers with high income and have good export quality, but they have a concern about postharvest losses. Hence, increasing productivity and decreasing post-harvest losses by using scientific studies and techniques like biotechnology and nanotechnology could be the simplest possible solution to the above-mentioned problems. Using nanotechnology which is having the characteristics of nanoparticles is proven to be very useful in science and technological applications. Nanotechnology-based formulations increase the product quality and the shelf life of horticultural products and provide multiple ways of inhibiting the growth and development of microorganisms. It is precisely a new edible packaging coverage (film) that controls the exchange of gases and prevents damage from harmful rays such as ultraviolet radiation to a greater extent. Increasing strength by using nano biosensors for labeling products is considered a fundamental process to automated control of storage products. Postharvest rotting of vegetables is recognized to be an oxidative reaction and microbial deterioration as well. This review will address all such nanotechnology-based advancements for minimizing post-harvest losses of horticultural crops and enhancing the socio-economical progress of growers in particular.

Development and application of gelatin based edible coating containing cellulose nanocrystal in the storage of fresh cucumber

“…Nanotechnology is gaining recognition as a tool for food security, through the production of food with outstanding quality (Neme et al, 2021). Nanotechnology, having characteristics of nanoparticles is emerging to be useful in elongation of shelf life of fruits and vegetables also proving to be inhibitory to the proliferation of microorganisms (Upadhyay et al, 2022). Edible Development And Application of Gelatin Based Edible Coating Containing Cellulose Nanocrystal in the Storage of Fresh Cucumber coating is simply a layer of edible material formed around food or placed between its components (Fakhouri et al, 2014).…”

“…FAO (2019) estimated about 2 billion people in the world experienced moderate to severe food insecurity, lacking access to quality food predisposes them to malnutrition (Neme et al, 2021). About 33% of the food delivery worldwide for human consumption is lost after harvesting according to Food and Agriculture Organization (Upadhyay et al, 2022). Pathogenic organisms were culpable in food wastage globally, minimizing wastage will increase the supply and cost of food (Neme et al, 2021).…”