Preharvest Factors Affecting Fresh Produce Quality And Postharvest Performance

The successful storage of fruits and vegetables after harvest is of paramount importance and well-documented due to its numerous advantages, making it a valuable tool in achieving Sustainable Development Goals such as zero hunger, good health and well-being. The postharvest performance of fresh produce depends on two major parameters: i) postharvest handling and storage conditions, and ii) the characteristics and quality of the products at harvest. To date, cultivation practices often prioritize agronomic performance (such as maximizing yield and preventing insects and diseases), while overlooking their significant impact on postharvest quality and storability of the fresh produce. Additionally, the current climate crisis poses a substantial source of abiotic stress for crops, including challenges like salinity, drought, and temperature fluctuations, which directly affect plant physiology and fresh produce quality. To address these challenges, it is crucial to recognize the direct link between preharvest practices and postharvest performance of the harvested crops.

This Research Topic is dedicated to advancing the scientific knowledge about the effect of various preharvest factors on the postharvest quality and shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables. By exploring a diverse array of parameters, such as growing systems, irrigation practices, fertilization techniques, and more we aim to uncover new insights and advance our understanding of the interplay between pre- and post-harvest physiology and quality, which is critical for the optimization and extension of the postharvest life of fresh produce.

We welcome all types of articles, such as original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and mini-reviews, which discuss the complex field management practices and strategies as well as environmental conditions and their impact on fresh produce quality and postharvest performance.