Nanoencapsulation reduces the perception of carvacrol odor, enhances the control of Botrytis cinerea growth and preserves grape quality.

Botrytis cinerea is the causal agent of gray mold, which is one of the most widespread and destructive fungal diseases that compromises the productivity and quality of grapes produced throughout the world. This work aimed to verify, for the first time, the impact of unencapsulated carvacrol and encapsulated in Eudragit® nanocapsules (Eud-Carv NCs) and chia mucilage (Chia-Carv NCs) on mycelial growth and spore germination of B. cinerea.

Nanoencapsulation with Eudragit® and chia mucilage increases the stability and antifungal efficacy of carvacrol against spp.

Carvacrol is a consolidated natural antimicrobial. However, its use in food is a challenge due to characteristic odour and high volatility. Nanoencapsulation has emerged to overcome these drawbacks.

Carvacrol nanocapsules as a new antifungal strategy: Characterization and evaluation against fungi important for grape quality and to control the synthesis of ochratoxins.

Fungi are a problem for viticulture as they can lead to deterioration of grapes and mycotoxins production. Despite the widespread use of synthetic fungicides to control fungi, their impact on the agricultural ecosystem and human health demand safer and eco-friendly alternatives. This study aimed to produce, characterize and assess the antifungal activity of carvacrol loaded in nanocapsules of Eudragit® and chia mucilage as strategy for controlling Botrytis cinerea, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus carbonarius, and Aspergillus niger.

Genomic analysis reveals genes that encode the synthesis of volatile compounds by a Bacillus velezensis-based biofungicide used in the treatment of grapes to control Aspergillus carbonarius.

Fungal control strategies based on the use of Bacillus have emerged in agriculture as eco-friendly alternatives to replace/reduce the use of synthetic pesticides. Bacillus sp. P1 was reported as a new promising strain for control of Aspergillus carbonarius, a known producer of ochratoxin A, categorized as possible human carcinogen with high nephrotoxic potential.