About this Research Topic

Background

Research into the field of preharvest factors affecting fresh produce quality and postharvest performance is critical for ensuring the successful storage and longevity of fruits and vegetables. The importance of this area is underscored by its alignment with Sustainable Development Goals, such as zero hunger and good health and well-being.

Despite the well-documented benefits of effective postharvest management, current cultivation practices often prioritize agronomic performance, such as maximizing yield and preventing pests, while neglecting the significant impact these practices have on the postharvest quality and storability of fresh produce. Furthermore, the ongoing climate crisis introduces additional abiotic stresses, including salinity, drought, and temperature fluctuations, which adversely affect plant physiology and the quality of fresh produce. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive understanding of the direct link between preharvest practices and postharvest performance, an area that remains underexplored.

This Research Topic aims to advance scientific knowledge about the effect of various preharvest factors on the postharvest quality and shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables. By investigating a diverse array of parameters, such as growing systems, irrigation practices, and fertilization techniques, the research seeks to uncover new insights into the interplay between pre- and post-harvest physiology and quality. The ultimate objective is to optimize and extend the postharvest life of fresh produce, thereby contributing to food security and sustainability. Specific questions to be addressed include: How do different preharvest practices influence the postharvest quality of produce? What are the best management strategies to mitigate the impact of abiotic stress on crop quality?

To gather further insights into the boundaries of preharvest factors affecting postharvest performance, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Impact of growing systems on postharvest quality
- Influence of irrigation practices on produce shelf life
- Effects of fertilization techniques on postharvest performance
- Role of climate and abiotic stress in determining fresh produce quality
- Strategies for integrating preharvest and postharvest management practices
- Case studies on successful preharvest interventions for improved postharvest outcomes
- Technological advancements in monitoring and improving preharvest conditions

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Editorial
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Editorial
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: shelf life, storage, ripening, physiology

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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