Next-Generation Postharvest Strategies: Interdisciplinary Approaches to Enhancing Fruit and Vegetable Quality and Safety

Dear Colleagues,

As the global demand for fresh fruits and vegetables climbs, so too does the challenge of their inherent perishability, which is amplified by their physiology and moisture content. Significant postharvest losses are a critical issue, with traditional preservation methods often being unable to meet the needs of complex modern supply chains. This Special Issue invites contributions that delve into innovative postharvest technologies aimed at extending shelf lives and maintaining the quality of produce.

We seek submissions that utilize cutting-edge techniques, such as next-generation sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics, controlled atmosphere storage, modified atmosphere packaging, and ethylene management strategies (e.g., 1-Methylcyclopropene treatment and ethylene absorbers). Research should focus on elucidating the mechanisms that govern postharvest ripening and storage processes, employing advanced physiological and biochemical technologies.

This issue also encourages interdisciplinary research concerning food safety, particularly studies focusing on the detection, control, and elimination of pathogens in fresh produce using innovative sanitizing methods like ultraviolet light treatment and hypobaric storage. These contributions should aim to secure the safety and quality of fruits and vegetables throughout the supply chain, thus enhancing food security and reducing waste.

Dr. Kang-Mo Ku
Dr. HanRyul Choi
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Horticulturae is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• postharvest
• shelf life
• freshness
• quality
• fruits
• vegetables