Bioscience Methods 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 207-215 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/bm 207 Research Insight Open Access Study of Post-Harvest Preservation Techniques for Loquat and its Application in Reducing Post-Harvest Losses Xiuying Zhao Traditional Chinese Medicine Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, China Corresponding author: xiuying.zhao@cuixi.org Bioscience Methods, 2024, Vol.15, No.5 doi: 10.5376/bm.2024.15.0021 Received: 01 Jul., 2024 Accepted: 11 Aug., 2024 Published: 01 Sep., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Zhao, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Zhao X.Y., 2024, Study of post-harvest preservation techniques for loquat and its application in reducing post-harvest losses, Bioscience Methods, 15(5): 207-215 (doi: 10.5376/bm.2024.15.0021) Abstract Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) holds significant importance in agriculture due to its nutritional value and economic relevance. However, post-harvest losses remain a major challenge due to its rapid ripening and sensitivity to environmental factors such as temperature and humidity. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the post-harvest physiology of loquat, including key factors contributing to spoilage. Traditional preservation techniques, such as cold storage, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), chemical treatments, and dehydration methods, are discussed, along with emerging technologies like nano-coating, natural antimicrobials, and smart packaging systems. Through a comparative analysis of these methods' efficiency, economic viability, and environmental impact, this study also evaluates the integration of preservation techniques within supply chains and their role in reducing post-harvest losses through a regional case study. Lastly, this study explores future directions for loquat preservation, focusing on technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and sustainability. The findings are expected to provide insights into improving post-harvest management and reducing loquat losses. Keywords Loquat; Post-harvest preservation; Shelf-life extension; Storage techniques; Food sustainability 1 Introduction Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) is a subtropical evergreen tree that holds significant agricultural value due to its diverse uses and nutritional benefits. The fruit is not only consumed fresh but is also processed into various products such as jams, jellies, juices, wines, and canned fruits. Additionally, loquat leaves and seeds are utilized in the development of food products and for extracting valuable compounds like starch and oil (Shah et al., 2023). The fruit is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamin A, ascorbic acid, calcium, iron, manganese, and potassium, and contains pharmacologically active constituents such as kaempferol, ursolic acid, and quercetin, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antioxidative, and antidiabetic properties (Dhiman et al., 2021). Despite its nutritional and economic importance, loquat faces significant post-harvest challenges that limit its shelf life and marketability (Fu et al., 2020). The fruit is highly perishable and susceptible to various physiological disorders and decay after harvesting. Common post-harvest issues include physical and mechanical damage, moisture and nutrient loss, and decay. Additionally, loquat is prone to chilling injury and flesh browning during low-temperature storage, which further complicates its preservation (Jing et al., 2022). Techniques such as modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), controlled atmosphere (CA) storage, and treatments with compounds like 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) have been explored to extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of loquat fruit (Pareek et al., 2014). This study comprehensively evaluates the various post-harvest preservation techniques for loquat and their effectiveness in reducing post-harvest losses; covers physical, chemical, and biological methods of preservation, highlights recent advancements and innovations in the field. By synthesizing information from past and current research, this study provides a clear understanding of the best practices for loquat preservation, thereby aiding researchers, farmers, and industry stakeholders in improving the post-harvest management of this valuable fruit.
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