Bioscience Methods 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 207-215 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/bm 213 highest ascorbic acid and total phenolic content throughout the storage period. In contrast, control groups, especially the water control, showed a faster rate of decay and a more rapid decline in ascorbic acid and phenolic content. Additionally, MDA, an indicator of oxidative stress, increased more rapidly in the control groups, signifying higher levels of lipid peroxidation. The results suggest that TaEO and its combination with ME can enhance the shelf life and antioxidant capacity of loquat fruits, reducing oxidative damage and slowing decay during storage. This study supports the potential of natural treatments for fruit preservation. 7.4 Lessons learned and future recommendations The case study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate post-harvest preservation techniques to extend the shelf life and reduce losses of loquat fruit. The success of konjac glucomannan coatings and polyethylene foam fruit nets suggests that these methods are practical and effective for commercial use. However, the study also underscores the need for continuous innovation and optimization of preservation techniques. Future recommendations include exploring the potential of nanotechnology-based active packaging to further enhance the quality and shelf life of loquat fruit. Additionally, integrating advanced monitoring technologies such as electronic noses and near-infrared spectroscopy could provide non-destructive methods for quality assessment, ensuring better management of post-harvest losses (Kahramanoğlu, 2020). 8 Future Perspectives and Recommendations 8.1 Advancements in preservation techniques The future of post-harvest preservation techniques for loquat fruit looks promising with the advent of advanced technologies. Traditional methods such as cold storage, controlled atmosphere storage, and chemical treatments have been widely used but come with limitations such as high costs and potential residues. Emerging technologies like nanotechnology offer a state-of-the-art alternative, enhancing the post-harvest quality and extending the shelf life of loquat by removing ethylene, antioxidants, and antimicrobials. Additionally, advanced physical and chemical treatments such as active packaging, vacuum impregnation, and cold plasma are being explored to preserve the nutritional value and safety of fresh produce. These methods, combined with contactless and non-destructive quality monitoring techniques like image analysis and near-infrared spectroscopy, present numerous advantages over traditional methods. The integration of these advanced technologies could significantly reduce post-harvest losses and improve the overall quality of loquat fruit. 8.2 Policy and regulatory considerations To fully realize the benefits of these advanced preservation techniques, it is crucial to address policy and regulatory considerations. The implementation of novel sustainable strategies is essential for reducing synthetic fungicide residues on fruit surfaces and minimizing environmental impact. Regulatory frameworks should encourage the adoption of advanced technologies by providing guidelines and standards for their safe and effective use. Policies should also promote research and development in the field of post-harvest preservation, ensuring that new methods are both economically viable and environmentally friendly. Collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, and industry stakeholders is necessary to develop and enforce regulations that support the widespread adoption of these innovative techniques (Hong and Huang, 2024). 8.3 Recommendations for further research Further research is needed to optimize and validate the effectiveness of advanced preservation techniques for loquat fruit. Studies should focus on the long-term effects of these methods on fruit quality, nutritional value, and safety. Research should also explore the potential of combining multiple preservation techniques to achieve synergistic effects and further extend the shelf life of loquat. Additionally, there is a need for more comprehensive studies on the economic feasibility and environmental impact of these advanced methods. Investigating the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of these techniques can provide valuable insights for improving their application. Finally, research should aim to develop user-friendly and cost-effective technologies that can be easily adopted by small-scale farmers and producers, ensuring that the benefits of advanced preservation methods are accessible to all.
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