Critical assessment of the delivery methods of chemical and natural postharvest preservatives for fruits and vegetables: a review

For years, researchers have been tirelessly searching for efficient postharvest preservatives to ensure a sustainable and healthy supply chain of fresh fruits and vegetables. However, the effectiveness of preservatives is significantly influenced by delivery methods employed for preservatives. This work centers on delivery methods of diverse preservatives. It delves into the mechanisms of penetration and internalization that facilitate preservatives diffusion into fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, the study comprehensively reviews various delivery methods and their impact on postharvest quality of these fresh food. Methods include liquid surface impregnation (soaking, vacuum infiltration, spraying) and gaseous fumigation. Additionally, unconventional delivery measures, such as fruit stem delivery, microbubble, and edible coating, are discussed in detail for the first time. It is expected that our work will provide inspiration for future development in academia, industry, and supervision.Through a comprehensive review on preservative delivery methods in fruits and vegetables preservation, it becomes evident that majority of existing studies concentrate on the development and mechanisms of preservatives. However, a notable gap lies in comparative analysis of different delivery methods, despite the direct impact of delivery methods on preservation outcomes. Additionally, emerging delivery techniques have displayed promising potential in enhancing delivery efficiency and likewise preservation effectiveness.HIGHLIGHTS center dot Preservative delivery methods (soaking, vacuum infiltration, spraying, fumigation) directly impact their effectiveness.center dot Delivery efficiency is linked to fruit epidermis, including cuticle, intercellular spaces, and stomata.center dot Research uses varied delivery methods, concentrations, and times for preserving different fruits.center dot Promising preservative delivery methods: microbubble, fruit stem delivery, and edible coating.