Application of GRAS compounds to control soft rot in jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.) caused by Rhizopus stolonifer

Abstract

Jackfruit is affected by various pathogens in the post-harvest stage, among which is Rhizopus stolonifer, the causal agent of soft rot. To control this pathogen, fungicides are used which damage the environment and affect human health. This situation encourages the search for safe alternatives, among which is chitosan, which has fungicidal characteristics and controls the ripening of various fruits. Also, potassium sorbate is a compound that has traditionally been used to preserve food. In this study, chitosan (Chi) and potassium sorbate (PS) was applied to inhibit the development of R. stolonifer. Determining the mycelial growth, spore germination, sporulation, the severity of the disease, as well as the activity of enzymes involved in the defense of the fruit such as peroxidase (POD) and polyphenoloxidase (PPO). Obtaining a 100% reduction in mycelial growth and spore germination with the 1% Chi-1.0% PS combination. Furthermore, soft rot is not evident when the same treatment was applied to jackfruit, inducing the activity of POD and PPO. The application of chitosan combined with potassium sorbate may be a promising alternative against soft rot in jackfruit.