Application of Biological Control Agents in Pre- and Postharvest Operations

Abstract

There is increasing concern about the environmental effects and safety of chemical pesticides and fungicides all over the world. Regulatory agencies have reacted to public pressure and introduced comprehensive legislation to reduce pesticide use. The limited number of viable alternatives to synthetic pesticides, however, is currently the major obstacle in reaching that goal. There is also the absence of effective chemicals for the control of many diseases. Some pests have developed resistance to certain pesticides. Biological control of pre- and postharvest diseases has been one of the most extensively studied alternatives and appears to be a viable technology. Research and development of biological control products for pre- and postharvest use has been on a fast track. Several commercial products are already available and others will be available in the near future. However, huge commercial successes in biological control are still rare. Currently, the main hurdle facing widespread use of postharvest biocontrol strategies is the decreasing efficacy and lack of consistency found when these methodologies are applied as standalone treatments under commercial conditions. Research into formulation technology might offer a new stimulus to help develop successful biological control agents from the vast number of strains isolated in the past decades. Combining biological, chemical, physiological, and other postharvest practices in an integrated control strategy can give excellent pest control during long term storage and transport of certain fruits. The opportunities of successful implementation of this technology is growing as information regarding various aspects related to formulation technology, application, microbial ecology, and genetics becomes available.