Postharvest diseases caused by microbial pathogens account for a large number of both quantitative and qualitative losses of both durable and perishable produce. Because harvested produce moves through sevearl agencies involved in harvesting, handling, transport, and storage, effective management of postharvest diseases demands the active collaboration of crop growers and personnel involved in handling, transport, and storage. The issue is further complicated by consumer demand for ever-increasing amounts of minimally processed fresh produce, which run the risk of being contaminated by pathogens that can make people seriously ill. In addition, we are increasingly aware of the risks posed by the presence of agrochemical residue in fruits, vegetables, and other food products. All of this underscores the need for taking up suitable measures to provide consumers with disease-free commodities that are also free from or contain only acceptible levels of chemical residues.

This book provides details of both conventional and modern molecular techniques applicable for the detection, identification, and differentiation of microbial pathogens. Field pathogens infect fruits and vegetables in the field and remain dormant during transit and storage, reemerging during the ripening process under certain environmental conditions. Storage pathogens remain in storage houses and may infect previously healthy produce through natural opening or injuries. Some fungal pathogens not only afffect the quality of the food, but can pose health problems for both humans and animals. Often one or more method of management and control needs to be employed in order to contain any problems including developing cultivars with resistance to postharvest diseases; applying physical methods; and effectively employing biocontrol agents and chemicals. The book contains various principles and strategies for preventing and managing postharvest diseases and includes examples keyed to helping readers develop ef

fective disease management systems suitable for different ecosystems.