Biological control of postharvest diseases: a promising alternative to the use of synthetic fungicides

Postharvest diseases of fruits and vegetables cause serious losses of fresh produce-world-wide. Most rot pathogens are controlled by various methods such as refrigeration, controlled atmosphere and fungicides. Biological control strategies are emerging as promising alternatives to the use of synthetic fungicides. Several antagonistic microorganisms have been found that can effectively inhibit postharvest diseases of fruits and vegetables.