Postharvest management of fungal pathogens of selected fruits: role of plant extracts, essential oils, edible films/coatings, and green nanoparticles
Fruits such as mango (Mangifera indica), apple (Malus × domestica ), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), and strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa), are consumed worldwide and fall under a highly economical category of crops. In contrast, the postharvest management against fungal infections particularly remains a challenge for maintaining the quality standards of these fruits. For decades, farmers have been dependent upon synthetic fungicides, thus having a serious impact on human health as well as the overall ecosystem. In order to avoid such situations, diverse research laboratories around the world have discovered safe alternatives to these chemical fungicides. The current review aims to summarize as well as analyze the substitute postharvest treatments, including plant extracts, edible films/coatings, green metallic nanoparticles, and plant-based essential oils for controlling fungal infections. The review also highlights the challenges related to each methodology. Natural fungicides effectively kill or inhibit postharvest fungi in addition to maintaining the overall fruit quality that is of utmost importance for retailers, farmers, and ultimate consumers.