Abstract: Plant essential oils and chitosan salts were tested individually and in combination against a postharvest pathogen Botrytis cinerea and two foodborne human pathogens Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes. Four essential oils (cinnamon, allspice, savory, red thyme) in combination with two chitosan salts (chitosan sorbate and chitosan propionate) demonstrated synergistic antimicrobial activity against all three organisms. The synergistic combinations of essential oils and chitosan salts also demonstrated an eradicant activity against E. coli on apple disks previously inoculated with the organism. Synergistic combinations of essential oils and chitosan salts hold promise of giving superior control of both postharvest decay organisms and foodborne human pathogens.

Abstract: Novel methods and compositions are provided for the biocontrol of plant diseases by use of a biological coating that confers both a protective and a curative effect for the control of postharvest decay. The coating includes chitosan salts, an antagonistic microorganism, and a cation. A composition of chitosan salts, CaCl2 and yeast is effective. The combined fungicidal activities of the chitosan salts and the antagonistic microorganism make the compositions of the present invention superior to previous coatings. When applied to the surface of a harvested plant commodity, the compositions both prevent and cure postharvest decay.

Abstract: Novel methods and compositions are provided for the biocontrol of plant diseases, in particular diseases causing plant postharvest decay. The novel compositions are “biocontrol cocktails” that are combinations of antagonistic microorganisms and antifungal agents. Suitable microorganisms include yeasts such as Candida spp. Suitable antifungal agents include enzymes or combinations of enzymes such as lysozyme or lyticase. The compositions are applied to the plants either to prevent or cure infections caused by microorganisms such as fungi. Synergistic effects occur. The methods and compositions are comparable to or better than synthetic fungicides or to either agent alone.

Abstract: A fumigant which is effective for the control of postharvest disease in agricultural commodities utilizes carbon supports impregnated with natural volatiles to provide controlled release of the volatiles in storage containers and facilities. Activated carbon is an effective carbon support, while essential oils and benzaldehyde are useful natural volatiles.

Abstract: A coating for harvested agricultural commodities which delays ripening and controls decay is described. The coating comprises a modified chitosan matrix containing a yeast antagonistic to postharvest pathogens. The modified chitosan may be carboxymethylchitosan or glycolchitosan. The combined fungicidal activities of the modified chitosan and the antagonistic yeast make this formulation an attractive preservative which is superior to existing coatings and ensures the even distribution of the antagonistic yeast over the surface of the harvested commodity, thus increasing its effectiveness.