A simple method to test the efficiencies of postharvest decay control treatments

Authors: Narciso, Jan; Plotto, Anne; Baldwin, Elizabeth - Liz

Submitted to: Florida State Horticultural Society Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/5/2007
Publication Date: 5/10/2007
Citation: Narciso, J.A., Plotto, A., Baldwin, E.A. 2007. A simple method to test the efficiencies of postharvest decay control treatments. Florida State Horticultural Society Meeting. Abstract No. HP14.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: It is often difficult to extrapolate information obtained under laboratory conditions to field conditions. This is especially true in the case of translating reactions between microorganisms grown in a Petri dish with experimental antimicrobials, and using these experimental compounds in commercial applications. Often large volumes of fruit are used for a virtually untested protocol and results in wasted fruit and a large expenditure of time and materials. An intermediate method where experimental compounds could be tested on produce without expending large quantities of either fruit or experimental compound would be practical and economical. An intermediate method was developed that employs the use of a small experimental chamber with pieces of fruit to be tested with experimental compounds that would result in effects that more closely reflect commercial application than the laboratory dish. This method is easily scaled up to commercial application with similar results to chamber data.