Research Keyword: postharvest disease management

Neem Essential Oil as an Antifungal Agent against Phyllosticta citricarpa

Citrus fruits are susceptible to a serious fungal disease called black spot that prevents them from being exported to certain countries. This study tested neem oil, a natural plant extract, as a replacement for chemical fungicides currently used to clean citrus fruits. The researchers found that neem oil was just as effective as the standard copper-based treatments at killing the fungus and preventing the disease, and it worked by breaking down the fungus cell membranes. This natural alternative could help farmers and fruit companies maintain food safety while using more eco-friendly solutions.

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Strains of Aureobasidium pullulans from Extreme Environments: New Potential Biocontrol Agents?

Researchers studied yeast strains collected from extreme environments like deserts and cold coastlines to find natural solutions for protecting fruit crops. They found that Aureobasidium pullulans, a black yeast that thrives in harsh conditions, can effectively control brown rot disease on peaches. The strains showed remarkable ability to survive extreme temperatures and pH levels, making them promising candidates for environmentally friendly crop protection that could help agriculture adapt to climate change.

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Essential Oils as an Antifungal Alternative to Control Several Species of Fungi Isolated from Musa paradisiaca: Part III

This research tested six common cooking and medicinal herbs to see which could stop the growth of fungi that spoil bananas after harvest. Scientists found that thyme oil was the most effective, followed by cinnamon and oregano, successfully preventing fungal growth at practical concentrations. These natural oils could replace synthetic chemical fungicides that harm the environment, offering a safer way to keep bananas fresh and healthy during storage and transport.

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