Double-bottom antimicrobial packaging for apple shelf-life extension.

A package was created that extends apple shelf-life by slowing Penicillium expansum growth. The package consisted of a peelable lid and a tray with a double bottom with inclusion complexes (ICs) of ß-cyclodextrin (ß-CD) containing the essential oils of palmarosa (ICp) or of star anise (ICsa). Oil amounts required for antimicrobial activity were obtained from in vitro assays.

Exopolysaccharides from Lactobacillus plantarum induce biochemical and physiological alterations in tomato plant against bacterial spot.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by Lactobacillus plantarum in controlling bacterial spot and eliciting defense mechanisms, and verify alterations in the tomato plant physiological responses. Tomato plants with five definitive leaves were sprayed with EPS, acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM, positive control), or distilled water (negative control) and inoculated with Xanthomonas gardneri after 3 days. Local and systemic protection was evaluated 7, 15, and 21 days after inoculation.

Effects of the protective, curative, and eradicative applications of chitosan against Penicillium expansum in apples.

Apple is one of the most important temperate fruit to Brazil economy, and the use of synthetic chemicals has been the main method for reducing postharvest diseases, such as the blue mold, caused by Penicillium expansum. This work intends to evaluate the practical utilization of chitosan for blue mold control. For this purpose, fruits were treated in a preventive and curative way, immersing the fruits in chitosan solution (5 or 10mgmL), or adding a single drop of this solution (10mgmL) directly into the injuries.

Efficacy of salicylic acid to reduce Penicillium expansum inoculum and preserve apple fruits.

Apples are among the most commonly consumed fruits worldwide. Blue mold (Penicillium expansum) is one of the major diseases in apples postharvest, leading to wide use of fungicides and the search for alternative products to control the pathogen. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the potential of salicylic acid (SA) as an alternative product to control blue mold and to preserve the physicochemical characteristics of apple fruit postharvest.

Antifungal activity of salicylic acid against Penicillium expansum and its possible mechanisms of action.

Apple is a fruit widely produced and consumed around the world. Blue mold (Penicillium expansum) is one of the main postharvest diseases in apples, leading to a wide use of fungicides and the search for alternative products. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of salicylic acid (SA) against P.