Litchi quality in the postharvest horticulture chain

 

 

Dharini Sivakumar* and Lise Korsten

Postharvest Technology Group, Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of Pretoria, 0002 Pretoria, South Africa

 

 

 

Abstract

Purpose of review: This article discussed how good litchi quality can be achieved at harvest and retained during the postharvest horticultural chain by explaining: (1) the different quality attributes that determine fruit quality;  (2) the effect of preharvest factors on fruit quality at harvest; (3) orchard management practices; (4) cultivar differences with respect to quality factors; (5) general postharvest handling and sulphur dioxide (SO₂) fumigation; (6) undesirable effects of SO₂ fumigation; and (7) quality related consumer acceptance. 

Findings: Fruit quality with respect to aroma, flavour and taste varies between different litchi cultivars. Orchard management practices such as pruning and the application of balanced fertilisers according to leaf and fruit analysis can enhance production of good quality fruits.

Limitations/implications: Currently, SO₂ fumigation causes undesirable effects on fruit. The strict standards enforced on fruit imports by the European Community permits a maximum sulphur residue concentration of only 10 ppm in the edible portion of the fruit.

Directions for future research: Application of modified atmosphere (MA) packaging could be considered partial replacement for SO₂ fumigation, especially for 21–25 days of the marketing chain. Thus, further research is needed to reveal the effect of delayed harvesting and packing line operations on the success of MA technology, as well as the effect of using protectants in MA technology to prevent decay and quality deteriorations during mismanagement of the cold chain. Specific systems for quality management such as Quality Analysis and Critical Control Points (QACCP ) must also be implemented to assess litchi quality and food safety aspects.

 

Keywords: litchi; fruit quality; SO₂ fumigation; preharvest factors; postharvest handling

 

Stewart Postharvest Review 2008, 3:2

Published online 01 June 2008

doi: 10.2212/spr.2008.3.2