Preharvest effects on postharvest quality of subtropical and tropical fruit [review]. [Conference paper]
1994
Hofman, P.J. | Smith, L.G. (Queensland Dept. of Primary Industries, Hamilton (Australia). Horticulture Postharvest Group)
Fruit quality is largely determined before harvest, while postharvest treatments are generally aimed at maintaining this quality. Therefore an understanding of the effects of preharvest practices on quality is important, particularly in relation to storage. Preharvest factors can influence most, if not all, quality parameters. Evidence of effects on visual appearance (size, colour, blemishes), eating quality (flavour, texture), storage potential (ripening, physiological disorders, disease), and tolerance to physical disinfection and disinfestation control measures (heat, cold) are presented for subtropical and tropical fruit. General relationships were noted in temperate and tropical fruit between nitrogen and colour, disorders, and postharvest disease; fruit size and firmness, calcium, and disorders; calcium and ripening, disorders, and disease; and calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Ways of improving storage potential through fruit minerals are discussed. Such improvements could result in reduced postharvest inputs (storage and disease control). There is potential for predictive models for storage potential of tropical fruits based on minerals, as currently exists for disorder prediction in apples. However, consideration should be given to the interactions between management practices and the various balances that exist in plants, and the compromises often required in producing a quality product.
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