Abstract

The aim of this review was threefold: First, to explore the effect of different preharvest treatments on postharvest quality of fruits and vegetables. Second, the principles of biological, chemical and biochemical changes in fruits and vegetables during development, maturation, ripening and storage were reviewed. Third postharvest handling and factors affecting quality of fruits and vegetables were examined. These include disinfecting, packaging and storage temperature. Pre- and postharvest treatments were found to have an effect on postharvest quality of fruit and vegetables, suggesting that postharvest quality of produce subjected to preharvest treatments should be assessed from a quality improvement, maintenance and consumer safety point of view. Literature recommends an integrated agro-technology approach towards improving quality at harvest and maintenance of qualities of fruits and vegetables.

Key words: Agro-technology, vegetables, fruits, preharvest treatments, ripening, postharvest handling, storage.

Abbreviation

Abbreviations: IAA, Indoleacetic acid; MAP, modified atmosphere packaging; CAS, controlled-atmosphere storage; CAP, controlled-atmosphere packaging; LDPE, low density polyethylene; LLDPE, linear low density polyethylene; MDPE, medium density polyethylene; HDPE, high density polyethylene; PP, polypropylene; PVC, polyvinylchloride; PS, polystyrene; VA, ethylene vinyl acetate; PVDC, polyvinylidine chloride.