eChapters

Introduction

The pistachio nut (Pistacia vera L.), a small tree native to Afghanistan, Central Asia, and Iran. The Pistacia genus is a member of the Anacardiaceae family, which also includes the cashew, mango, sumac, and poison ivy plants. The tree yields seeds, which are frequently eaten as food. The genus Pistacia has about 20 species including Pistacia vera, Pistacia atlantica, Pistacia terebinthus, Pistacia khinjuk, and Pistacia lentiscus (Parizi et al., 2016). Western Asia is the pistachio nut home region, and traders brought them to the Middle East, the Mediterranean nations, and Europe. Pistacia vera L. is the only species in this genus commercially grown for edible nuts. It was probably first grown in areas close to where it grew wild, as remains of pistachio nuts dating to the 6 millennium BC have been discovered in both Afghanistan and south-eastern Iran in recent times. Pistachio cultivation progressively spread to the West from the old Persian Empire, where it was widely grown. the word “Pistachio” etymology most likely stems from the Avestan word “pistak” from ancient Persian (Mandalari et al.2022).

Health benefits

In pistachio nuts more than 50% of the fat is unsaturated. There are also 20% proteins, 20% complex carbs, and pro-vitamin A. Dried fruit pistachios nut has the highest potassium content that is very good for health. It is also great supplier of energy, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron. The heart’s functioning can benefit from the consumption of this fruit. Moreover, it participates in cell metabolism, and the potassium it contains controls the water content of the cells. The production of hemoglobin and myoglobin depends on iron, consumption of pistachio nuts fulfill the iron requirements. It contributes to cellular respiration, intellectual growth, and immune system amplification. A crucial component of bones and teeth is phosphorus. Moreover, magnesium aids in the formation of bones and the production of proteins. This nut is good source of phosphorus and magnesium also.

Introduction

Chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) belongs to the family Fagaceae and is a deciduous tree. It is also known as sweet chestnut and has a chromosome number of 2n=24. Chestnuts have been used for centuries for various purposes such as food, timber, and medicine. They are an important source of carbohydrates and contain several nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber (Laribi et al., 2020). In India, chestnuts are mainly grown in the hilly regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

Origin and distribution

Chestnut is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region and was later introduced to other parts of the world. It is widely grown in Europe, Asia, and North America. In India, chestnuts were introduced by the British in the 19th century and were mainly grown as an ornamental tree. It was only after Independence that chestnuts were recognized as a potential crop for the hilly regions of the country (Bhat et al., 2016).

Area and production

The total area under chestnut cultivation in India is estimated to be around 1000 hectares, with an annual production of around 1000 metric tons (Bhat et al., 2016). The major states growing chestnuts are Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

Introduction

The olive fruit, scientifically known as Olea europaea L., is the edible fruit of the olive tree. It belongs to the Oleaceae family, which encompasses various other plants such as jasmine and lilac (Bartolini & Prevost, 2002). The scientific name Olea europaea reflects its European origin, with the genus name, Olea, derived from the Latin word “oleum” meaning oil, emphasizing the fruit’s high oil content. The species name, europaea, signifies its prevalence in Europe (Vossen, 2007). In India, the olive fruit is commonly referred to as “Jaitoon” or “Jaitooni” (Bhardwaj & Gupta, 2019). These names are derived from the Hindi language and are used to denote both the tree and its fruit. The olive tree has a diploid chromosome number of 2n = 46 (Besnard et al., 2008). This indicates that each cell of the olive tree contains 46 chromosomes, arranged in 23 pairs. Understanding the chromosome number is essential for genetic studies and breeding programs as it helps in comprehending the genetic diversity and variability of the olive fruit.

Importance

The production of olive fruit in India has gained significant importance in recent years due to various factors. Firstly, olive fruit is a valuable source of edible oil. Olive oil is renowned for its health benefits, being rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and vitamins (Vossen, 2007). The cultivation of olive fruit provides economic opportunities for farmers and contributes to the country’s agricultural diversification.

1.0 Introduction

Kiwi or kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) belongs to the Actinidiaceae family that is a fruiting vine originated from Yangtze Valley of China. Kiwifruit was named because it resembles a flightless bird, kiwi which is New Zealand’s national symbol. It is also referred as “New Zealand’s horticultural wonder”. In china kiwi was named as Yang Tao and also as “China’s miracle fruit”. Over the past century, kiwis have also acquired a variety of strange names, including “melonette”, “wood berry”, “strange fruit”, “monkey peach, “macaque pear”, “mihoutau”, “Chinese gooseberry” (Tyagi et al., 2015) “vine pear”, “sun peach” and the particularly enticing moniker “hairy bush fruit” (Hugh Cambbell and Julia Haggerty., 2008). Kiwifruit is a nutrient dense fruit which is exceptionally known for its flavour and vitamin C content (Guroo et al., 2017). Digestive potential, antioxidant property, healthy metabolism, immune function and protection from coronary artery disease are the therapeutic benefits of kiwi (Feruguson., 2003; Boeing et al., 2012; Singeltary., 2012). It reduces the risk against cancer (Puri and Manjula., 2018), arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases and irritable bowel syndrome (Chang et al., 2012) as it is a rich source of ascorbic acid and polyphenols. Due to palatability, aromatic compounds present in kiwifruit attract many consumers. Unique flavour and aroma is increased due to the presence of aldehyde E-2-hexenal, methyl benzoate, ethyl butanoate and esters. China tops in kiwifruit production followed by Italy. Two biggest exporters of Kiwi in world are Italy and New Zealand (Testolin & Ferguson, 2009). Kiwifruit has excellent pharmacological profile and it helps in development of nutritional supplements for welfare of mankind. Farmers can earn high return per unit area as it bears heavily every year and has no crop failure. Thus, kiwifruit has bright prospects in our country.

Introduction

Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) is a perennial herb that belongs to the Rosaceae family (Bayat et al.2019). Strawberry is sweet and has a distinct fragrance. Strawberries are a popular fruit that are known for their sweet taste, bright red color, and high nutritional value. It is abundant in several vitamins and nutrients, including carotene and anthocyanins. It is popularly regarded as the important table fruit of millions of people around the globe and well-liked by consumers. Strawberry, which has 98% edible component, is regarded as a whole fruit. typically eaten fresh and raw. They are tasty, healthful, and low in calories. Strawberries grow well in India in conditions that are often temperate in the north, subtropical in the plains, or tropical at high altitudes. The primary reason strawberry production is still in its infancy in India, despite its handsome fruits and palatable flavour, is that it is a perishable crop (Pramanick et al. 2012). The strawberry is a fruit that grows all over the world. The Roman poets Virgil and Ovid wrote about it in the first century, and gardeners have been growing strawberries in England since the sixteenth century (Boriss et al. 2006).

Introduction

Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus L.) belongs to the family Rosaceae and is a perennial fruit crop that is widely cultivated in different parts of the world due to its high nutritional and medicinal values. The fruit is known by different names such as bramble, dewberry, and thimbleberry, and has a chromosome number of 2n=14. Blackberry is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, and has potential health benefits in the management of various diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disorders (Kumar et al., 2018). The fruit is consumed fresh and also processed into jams, jellies, juices, wines, and other value-added products.

Origin and distribution

Blackberry is believed to have originated in Europe and Western Asia, and was introduced to North America by early European settlers. The fruit is now widely cultivated in different parts of the world including Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America (Arya et al., 2020). In India, blackberry cultivation is gaining popularity in states such as Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Uttarakhand, where the climatic conditions are favorable for its growth and development.

Introduction

Raspberry, scientifically known as Rubus idaeus L., belongs to the family Rosaceae. It is also known as “red raspberry” or “European raspberry,” and its chromosome number is 2n=14. Raspberry is an important and popular fruit crop due to its rich flavor, high nutritional value, and various medicinal properties. Raspberry is rich in vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, making it a valuable component of a healthy diet (Rahman et al., 2020). Raspberry is widely used in the food industry for jam, jelly, juice, ice cream, and other processed products.

Origin and Distribution

Raspberry is believed to have originated in Eastern Europe and Western Asia (Farrar, 2016). Raspberry was introduced to India during the British era and was initially cultivated on a small scale in the hilly regions of the country. Today, raspberry cultivation has spread to various parts of India, including Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim. The major raspberry-growing states in India are Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.

Introduction

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton) belongs to the Ericaceae family and is native to North America. Cranberries are also known by various other names, including American cranberry, bearberry, and lingonberry. The plant has a diploid chromosome number of 24 and grows in acidic, nutrient-poor soils in wetlands and bogs. It is an important commercial crop worldwide due to its high nutritional value, antioxidant properties, and health benefits. Cranberries are primarily consumed as juice, dried fruit, or in the form of sauces and jellies. They are a rich source of vitamins C and E, dietary fiber, anthocyanins and essential minerals such as potassium, manganese, and copper. The fruit is also used in the pharmaceutical industries due to its anti inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti aging properties (Santos et al., 2017; Wang et al., 2017).

The composition of cranberries is quite remarkable, with high levels of antioxidants, including phenolic compounds such as flavonols, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanidins. These compounds are responsible for the fruit’s vibrant red color and are thought to provide many of the health benefits associated with cranberries. Cranberries are an important crop in the United States, Canada, and Chile, with significant economic value. They are primarily consumed as juice or in processed forms, such as sauces and jams. Cranberries are also used in the production of dietary supplements and cosmetics.

The blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) is an evergreen or perennial deciduous shrub that is a member of the Ericaceae family and it is native to North America. It is oblat at maturity and forms dark blue color. Blueberry is also known as “the king of berries,” have real blue fruits, which is very rare in nature (Chu et al., 2018). Tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates make up the majority of the distribution of blueberries. The United States, Chile, Canada, Spain, China, Japan and Morocco are the top producer in the world (Yousuf et al., 2016). Traditionally, 58% of the world fresh blueberries are consumed in North America. The lowbush and highbush varieties combine produced 850,886 tonnes of blueberries in 2020. The United States alone produced around 35% and Peru for 21%. (FAOSTAT 2022).

According to the South Africa Berry Producers’ Association, blueberries were originally brought to South Africa in the 1970s and are currently one of the country’s fastest growing agricultural sectors. There are many places where blueberries are grown, with the Western Cape produced around (60%) followed by Limpopo (15%), North-West (10%), Gauteng (8%), Eastern Cape (4%), Free State (2%) and Mpumalanga (1%) (Steyn et al., 2022). Federick Coville of the United States Department of Agriculture began the first blueberry domestication in 1908. (USDA). High and low bushes are the most widely grown kind of blueberry, however rabbiteyes are only significant in South and North America. High and low bushes hybrids are very common in the upper Midwest of the United States. The main growing countries for north high bush are Australia, Germany, and France.

Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.)

Cape gooseberry, scientifically known as Physalis peruviana L. (Physalis edulis Sims) belongs to family Solanaceae. Fruits are enclosed inside a bladder- like husk which turns papery when mature making all seeds inside visible. There are more than 70 species under the genus Physalis. Out of these species only few of them are of economic value. Cape gooseberry is most widely known among these species as it bears superior fruit in comparison to other species. The fruits are good in taste and a good source of minerals and vitamin such as vitamin B complex, vitamin C and pro-vitamin A, rich in pectin.

Species diversity

Cape goosberry is also known by different names in Latin America: capuli, aguaymanto, tomate sylvestre, or uchuba, in Bolivia; uvillain, in Peru; capuli or motojobobo embolsado, in Colombia; topotopo, chuchuva, in Ecuador; uchuva, vejigón or guchavo in Venezuela; capuli, amor en bolsa, or bolsa de amor, in Chile; cereza del Peru in Mexico; teparee, tiparee, makowi, etc., in India. Physalis pruinose L. commonly known as strawberry tomato, husk tomato or ground cherry is also grown for its small yellow fruits. In mild-temperature climates, the fruit is used to make sauce, pies, and preserves. Unripe druits are toxic. In Australia, the plant is thought to have caused illness and death in cattle.

Plant hormone ethylene is involved in a number of physiological activities within the plant system, ranging from seed germination to fruit development. Ethylene acts as a key player in accelerating fruit ripening by regulating the activities of different enzymes, and is responsible for shortening the shelf life and associated post-harvest losses during the storage of fruit crops. However, all fruit crops have different ethylene production capacities and vary in their response to ethylene. Hence, effective management of post-harvest ethylene is imperative for addressing the global challenge of reducing fruit losses after harvesting. In recent periods, numerous technologies and compounds have been developed for the suppression of ethylene and for enhancing in-situ oxidation of ethylene or inhibiting its production at a receptor level. Among these emerging techniques, the use of sachets, fumigating agents, catalysis and composite films embedded with nanoparticles has been found to be trending, but the use of some of compounds has been limited due to health risks or consumer unacceptance. However, most of these technologies are very costly and are not affordable for marginal farmers and developing nations. In order to address these issues, long term breeding approaches for shelf-life improvement, targeting the tfs, ERFs have been involved. This manuscript fills the knowledge gap by encompassing all the recent progress made in enhancing the shelf life of fruits by managing ethylene during storage.

Fruit ripening is a phenomena during which horticulture produce undergoes a series of complex physical and biochemical changes initiated through a series of hormones (Ethylene, auxin, abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellins, jasmonic acid, etc.) to attain maximum physiological maturity and favourable organoleptic properties. These changes lead to alterations in colour, texture, aroma, flavour and nutrient composition. In a nut shell, ripening involves increase in pulp to peel ratio, solubilisation of pectic substances, degradation of complex carbohydrates, organic acids and chlorophyll, accumulation sugars, flavour volatiles, polyphenolic compounds and pigments (carotenoids, xanthophylls and anthocynanins). The extent of these changes guide harvesting, readiness for processing and consumption decisions, with physic-chemical alterations serving as indicators of optimum ripeness. Respiration rate, ethylene and ABA are key regulators of fruit ripening in climacteric and non-climacteric fruits, respectively. In climacteric fruits, ABA interacts with ethylene, influencing the synthesis of ethylene itself. Although there is ample documentation on the involvement of hormones in fruit development and ripening, our understanding of the functions of various hormones throughout growth, maturation, and specific ripening processes remains incomplete.

Calcium, anti-oxidants and certain enzymes are reported to play vital role in extending the shelf-life of harvested produce of many horticultural crops especially fruits. They help in maintenance of cell wall structure. Being an important constituent of cell wall, in the form of calcium pectate, it helps in maintenance of cell wall structure. Antioxidants are highly beneficial in extending the shelf-life of fruits besides maintaining the quality. Similarly, some enzymes play a key role in preserving the fruit quality and prolonging its market life. As some fruits are catergorized under ‘Low volume high value fruits’, it is essential to extend their shel-flife for reducing the post-harvest losses of fruits and also to reap better remuneration. Thus, it becomes indispensable to review the role of Ca, anti-oxidants and enzymes which are beneficial in keeping the harvested produce afresh for a relatively longer period.

Fruits, the vivid and delightful offerings of the nature, undergo remarkable transformations as they travel from the orchard to our dining tables. These changes indicate the significance of post-harvest physiology, which is the scientific study that reveals the secrets of how fruits behave after they are picked, including the mechanisms that affect fruit quality and how long it may be stored. The next section provides definitions of the various stages and key players involved in the processes of fruit maturity, ripening, and post harvest physiology. These topics will be further explored in the subsequent sub-sections of this chapter.

Fruit developmental physiology

The life cycle of horticultural commodities (fruits and vegetables) can be effectively categorized into three primary physiological stages after fruit set or initiation, namely growth, maturation, and senescence. Still, a lack of obvious differentiation exists among the several stages. Growth encompasses the process of cell division followed by cell enlargement, which determines the ultimate size of the product. Maturation typically begins prior to the cessation of growth and involves various activities across different commodities. The stages of growth and maturity are commonly denoted as the developmental phase. Senescence can be described as the phase in which anabolic biochemical processes transition into catabolic processes, resulting in the ageing and eventual demise of the tissue. Ripening, a term specifically used for fruit, is typically regarded as the initial phase of senescence that occurs during the later phases of development. Defining the transition from growth to senescence is rather straightforward.

Fruits and vegetables are perishables and the post-harvest losses from the point of production at the farm gate till it reaches the consumers is estimated as 30-35 per cent which constitute a major economic drain of more than 33 billion USD equivalent to Rs 2,40,000 crores annually. In order to reduce the losses at various stages, nanotechnologies have come as potential strategies to minimize the losses while improving the marketability and profitability of perishables. One of the plants derived natural compounds “hexanal” which is known to extend the shelf-life of fruits when it is used as a pre-harvest spray or post-harvest dip as a nano-emulsion. Since, it is a highly volatile compound, efforts were undertaken to entrap the compound in the polymer-based nano f ibres (as nano stickers) or as a cyclodextrin inclusion complex (as nano pellets) in order to preserve the perishables. Further, hexanal vapour was also evaluated to preserve fruits. In this book chapter, various nanotechnologies tested, evaluated and technologies developed over the years are elucidated. Overall, the literature review suggests that use of any of the nanotechnologies delivered as pre-harvest spray, post-harvest dip, nano-stickers, nano-pellets and vapour singly or in combination found to reduce the infestation of post harvest diseases, minimize the losses and extended shelf-life by 2-3 weeks that help the farmers to get lucrative prices due to the late arrival in the market besides significantly improve the productivity and profitability of orchards.

Introduction

The cold chain is a meticulously managed series of actions using specialized equipment to ensure products remain within a specific low-temperature range from production to consumption (ASHRAE, 2024; IIR, 2024). This unbroken sequence encompasses refrigerated production, storage, and distribution activities, safeguarding the safety and quality of perishable and thermo-sensitive goods like agricultural commodities (such as fresh produce, meat, dairy, seafood, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, flowers, wine, etc.), processed foods and pharmaceuticals (Aung and Chang, 2014; Awan, 2023). For climacteric fruits like bananas, custard apples, apples, pears, tomatoes, mangoes, and avocados, cold storage facilitates controlled ripening, extending the time between harvest and consumption. Cold chain management, integral to the overall supply chain, requires expertise in maintaining temperature, air quality, and adherence to regulatory standards. Any disruption in this process can lead to product spoilage and financial implications (FAO, 2019). The management of the cold chain system is crucial for preserving the freshness, taste, and nutritional value of fruits from harvest to consumption (Kader, 2003).

Introduction

Perishable nature of horticultural produce is a major factor contributing in high post-harvest losses. The metabolic processes such as respiration, transpiration, and ethylene production remain active after the harvesting of produce, which drive ripening and senescence Fig. 1. Thus, an effective post-harvest handling is crucial to delay these changes. The rate of these processes depends on the produce’s physiological characteristics, composition, and storage conditions like temperature and humidity. Low-temperature storage is the simplest and most efficient method to slow down deterioration Escobedo-Avellaneda and Welti-Chanes, 2016. Combining low temperatures with methods that limit oxygen exposure, which fuels many enzymatic reactions, further extends shelf life and maintains food quality. Reduced oxygen levels decrease respiration and the activity of enzymes like polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase.

Introduction

India is bestowed with varied agro-climatic conditions. Thus, horticultural crops have lot of potential in the country. India has witnessed voluminous increase in horticulture production over the last few years, which has undoubtedly doubled the income of farmers. As a result, the country has emerged as the 2nd largest producer of fruits (102.48 million tonnes) after China during 2020-21 (Anonymous, 2023). The abundance of fruits ranging from tropical delights like mango, banana, guava and papaya to temperate fruits such as apple, peach, plum, apricot and pear, have laid a robust foundation for the growth of the fruit processing industry. This chapter delves into the dynamics of fruit processed products in both local and international markets, exploring the challenges, opportunities and strategies for sustained success. Fruit processing plays a crucial role in adding value to horticultural produce, enhancing shelf-life and meeting the diverse demands of local and international markets. In India, a country blessed with abundant fruit varieties, the processed fruit industry has been witnessing significant growth, catering not only to the domestic market but also making strides in the global arena. The processing of these fruits into various products such as juices, pulps, concentrates, jams and dried fruits has emerged as a thriving industry. This chapter will provide insights into the current state of fruit processed products in India, their importance for both local consumption and export markets, challenges faced by the industry and potential avenues for the future growth.

Introduction

The horticulture sector is contributing over 30 per cent share in agricultural GDP of the country. Presently, India producing about 351.92 million tons of horticultural produce from 28.04 million hectare which has surpassed the food grain production for last five consecutive years (Anonymous, 2023). Horticulture sector has been identified by Government of India also identified horticulture as one of the vital sector for entrepreneurship development, employment generation, livelihood and nutritional security, doubling farmer’s income, achieving SDGs of the United Nations.

Fruits and vegetables have become part of a modern healthy lifestyle as they possess high amounts of minerals, especially electrolytes, dietary fiber, phytochemicals, especially antioxidants, and vitamins (Yahia et al., 2019; Krishnan Kesavan et al., 2023). In consumption, the qualities of products play a critical role in consumers’ choices, which are directly related to health problems (Tian, and Xu, 2022). Bioactive compounds are phytochemical substances present in small quantities in plant materials that can provide biological activity, being generally associated with health benefits, including hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antithrombotic, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic and prevention of cardiovascular and degenerative diseases (Campoli et al., 2018). Therefore, maintaining high-quality fruits and vegetables is very important for the fruit and vegetable industry. This requires some methods to evaluate the quality of fresh fruits and vegetables during their post-harvest manipulation and storage and before their industrial processing as well (Tian and Xu, 2022).

Waste is defined as anything that doesn’t add value to their operations. To the average person, waste is simply stuff that’s unwanted or useless. But from a scientific perspective, there’s really no such thing as waste. Nearly all the things we throw away can be transformed or processed in ways that make them useful again.

Waste comes in various forms, ranging from household trash to industrial byproducts. These include domestic waste, factory waste, e-waste, construction waste, agricultural waste, and more. We can categorize waste into different types:

Solid waste: This includes organic materials like vegetable and kitchen waste, as well as general household waste.

E-waste: Discarded electronic devices such as computers, TVs, and music systems fall into this category.

Liquid waste: This comprises water used in various industries, as well as waste from tanneries, distilleries, and thermal power plants.

Plastic waste: Items like plastic bags, bottles, and containers make up this category.