Photoactive Bio-fungicide for Post-Harvest Use with Citrus Fruit and Table Grapes
Summary
This bio-fungicide is based on a novel process consisting of the chemical binding of two natural molecules that have proven to be highly effective against two of the most common pathogens known to attack fresh fruit: Penicillium digitatum and Botrytis cinerea. This organic fungicide is a promising alternative to traditional pesticides as it meets regulatory limits for waste products in addition to having less of an environmental impact.
Formulated with environmentally-safe and sustainable compounds that are easily applied to and washed off of fresh fruit using present-day industrial methods, this fungicide has also proven to be extremely effective at inhibiting pathogens that cause mold to grow on fruit postharvest, not to mention its potential use against other phytopathogens.
Potential Applications
- Controlling postharvest pathogens causing mold in fresh fruit.
- Controlling postharvest pathogens causing mold in other crops.
Development Status
TRL 4. Laboratory testing of prototype components. Researchers have already developed a prototype of the active ingredient and are currently formulating the final product, determining dosage, tolerance and toxicity levels.
Advantages
- Natural, plant-based product
- Highly effective at inhibiting mold growth
- Broad range of applications
- Environmentally-safe and -friendly
- Compatible with present-day industrial methods commonly in postharvest applications
Intellectual Property
- Chilean Patent Application No. 201903654 Pending
- Date Submitted: 12/12/2019
Opportunity
Looking for partners interested in funding the technology’s industrial-scale technical and commercial validation. This technology is available to companies interested in acquiring the innovation rights with a view to putting the product on the market.
Research Team
Denis Fuentealba, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences