Introduction
Postharvest biology is a multidisciplinary field dedicated to the study and management of factors affecting the quality, shelf life, and safety of agricultural products after they are harvested.
History
The importance of postharvest preservation has been recognized for centuries, as civilizations sought ways to store food for extended periods. However, it wasn t until the 20th century that systematic research into postharvest biology gained momentum. The Green Revolution highlighted the need to reduce postharvest losses and enhance food security.
Noteworthy Personnel
-
Gustav W. Fassett
A pioneer in postharvest physiology, he conducted early research on respiration and ethylene production in fruits.-
Elwood F. Caldwell
Made significant contributions to understanding the physiology of fruits and vegetables during storage and transportation.-
Adel A. Kader
Known for his work on postharvest handling of fruits and vegetables, he emphasized the importance of minimizing quality loss.
Evolution till Date
Postharvest biology has evolved with technological advancements:
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Controlled Atmosphere Storage
Modifying storage conditions to extend shelf life.-
Modified Atmosphere Packaging
Creating specific gas compositions to preserve freshness.-
Ethylene Management
Regulating ethylene exposure to control ripening.-
Cold Chain Management
Maintaining low temperatures to slow biological processes.
Industrial Applications
1.
Food Preservation
Extending shelf life and reducing postharvest losses.2.
Supply Chain Management
Ensuring quality and safety during transportation.3.
Quality Control
Monitoring and maintaining product attributes.4.
Export and Import
Facilitating global trade by preserving product quality.5.
Agricultural Economics
Minimizing losses to enhance economic sustainability.6.
Food Safety
Reducing the risk of microbial contamination.7.
Consumer Satisfaction
Providing fresh and nutritious produce to consumers.8.
Pharmaceuticals
Preserving medicinal plants for herbal products.9.
Horticulture
Maintaining ornamental plant quality during shipping.10.
Seed Storage
Ensuring seed viability and germination rates.11.
Sustainable Agriculture
Reducing waste and resource consumption.12.
International Trade
Meeting international quality standards.13.
Value Addition
Transforming raw produce into processed products.14.
Biofortification
Preserving nutrient content in fortified foods.15.
Minimally Processed Foods
Providing convenient, fresh-cut produce.16.
Agricultural Biotechnology
Storing plant material for genetic preservation.17.
Waste Reduction
Minimizing postharvest losses to combat food waste.18.
Organic Farming
Ensuring organic produce quality during storage.19.
Local Food Systems
Maintaining freshness in farmer s markets.20.
Climate Change Adaptation
Developing strategies for changing climate conditions.
Future Prospects
The future of postharvest biology research holds exciting possibilities:
-
Precision Agriculture
Tailoring postharvest practices to specific crops and conditions.-
Advanced Packaging Technologies
Developing innovative packaging solutions.-
Nanotechnology
Enhancing preservation through nanomaterials.-
Sustainable Packaging
Reducing environmental impact of packaging materials.-
Biodegradable Films
Creating packaging that decomposes without harming the environment.-
Smart Sensors
Monitoring and transmitting real-time data on product conditions.-
Waste Valorization
Converting postharvest waste into valuable products.-
Climate-Resilient Storage
Adapting to changing climate patterns.-
Blockchain Technology
Ensuring traceability and transparency in supply chains.
Postharvest biology stands as a crucial discipline that bridges agricultural production and consumer satisfaction. From its early recognition to its current integration with technology and sustainability, postharvest biology continues to be a cornerstone of food security and quality. As innovations emerge and global challenges such as climate change and food waste persist, the future of postharvest biology research promises to revolutionize how we store, transport, and consume agricultural products, ensuring a more sustainable and secure food supply for generations to come.
Testimonials
VB. Bhavana View on Google
I have completed my 6 month dissertation in NTHRYS biotech labs. The lab is adequately equipped with wonderful, attentive and receptive staff. It is a boon to the students venturing into research as well as to students who would like to garner lab exposure. I had a pleasant experience at NTHRYS thanks to Balaji S. Rao Sir for his constant support, mettle and knowledge. I would also like to give special regards to Zarin Mam for teaching me the concepts of bioinformatics with great ease and for helping me in every step of the way. I extend my gratitude to Vijaya Mam, and Sindhu Mam for helping me carry out the project smoothly.
Durba C Bhattacharjee View on Google
I have just completed hands on lab trainings at NTHRYS in biotechnology which includes microbiology, molecular and immunology and had gained really very good experience and confidence having good infra structures with the guidance of Sandhya Maam and Balaji Sir.
Recommending to any fresher of biotechnology or microbiology field who wants to be expert before joining to
related industry.
Razia View on Google
Best place to aquire and practice knowledge.you can start from zero but at the end of the internship you can actually get a job that is the kind of experience you get here.The support and encouragement from the faculty side is just unexplainable because they make you feel like family and teach you every bit of the experiment.I strongly recommend NTHRYS Biotech lab to all the students who want to excel in their career.
Srilatha View on Google
Nice place for hands on training
Nandupandu View on Google
Very good place for students to learn all the techniques
Sadnaax View on Google
I apprenticed in molecular biology and animal tissue culture, helped me a lot for my job applications. Sandhya and Balaji sir were very supportive, very helpful and guided me through every step meticulously. Helped me learn from the basics and helped a lot practically. The environment of the lab is very hygienic and friendly. I had a very good experience learning the modules. Would recommend
Shivika Sharma View on Google
I did an internship in NTHRYS under Balaji sir and Sandhya maam. It was a magnificent experience. As I got hands-on experience on practicals and I was also provided with protocols and I learned new techniques too.This intership will help me forge ahead in life. The staff is very supportive and humble with everyone. Both sir and maam helped me with my each and every doubts without hesitation.
Digvijay Singh Guleria View on Google
I went for 2 months for different training programs at NTHRYS Biotech, had a fun learning experience. Everything was hands-on training and well organised protocols. Thank you Balaji sir and Sandhya mam for this life time experience.
Anushka Saxena View on Google
I’m a biotechnology student from Dy patil University mumbai and I recently completed my 6 months dissertation project at Nthrys Biotech Labs in Hyderabad. I had a great experience and I would highly recommend this lab to other students as well .
The first thing that I appreciated about Nthrys Biotech Labs was the friendly and supportive environment. Balaji sir and the staff Ragini and Sandhya ma’am were always willing to help me and they were always patient with my questions.
I also felt like I was part of a team and that I was making a real contribution to the companys research.
I learned a lot during my dissertation at Nthrys Biotech Labs not only academically but also personally . I had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, which gave me a broad exposure to the field of biotechnology. I also learned a lot about the research process and how to conduct experiments.
In addition to the technical skills that I learned, I also developed my soft skills during my internship. I learned how to communicate effectively, how to work independently, and how to work as part of a team.
Overall, I had a great experience at Nthrys Biotech Labs and I would highly recommend this company to other students.
Once again I would like to render a big thank you to Balaji Sir and Vijayalakshmi ma’am for imbibing with all the knowledge along with helping me publish my research paper as well and its all because of them I scored unbelievably well in my final semester.
Nithin Pariki View on Google
Lab equipment and protocols are good, it gives good hands on experience for freshers.
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