Potential of Biopesticides to Enhance the Shelf Life of Tomatoes

Extension of the storage life of tomato is a challenge due to its perishable nature, high temperature of the growing areas, and improper post-harvest practices. The search for pesticide-free organic food has led to increase the interest in research to develop safe, healthy, and environment-friendly post-harvest treatments. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of neem leaf extract, aloe vera gel, and chitosan for preservation of tomatoes in comparison with traditional post-harvest fungicide thiophanate methyl. The effect of these biopesticides on the quality of two tomato varieties during storage was determined. Firmness, weight loss, pH, ascorbic acid, ripening index, and decay or rotting of biopesticide-treated tomatoes were compared. Journal of Food Processing and Preservation, Volume 40, Issue 1, pages 3–13, February 2016. CLICK HERE to read full article.