Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) for Postharvest Fruit and Vegetable Disinfection

In postharvest handling, sanitation of horticultural products is a procedure necessary for improving its safety and increasing postharvest shelf life. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an alternative sanitizing agent recognized by FDA as safe and has shown potential biocide effect acting on broad microbiological spectrum. The exact mechanism as an antimicrobial agent is still insufficient although studies relate to its oxidative action. Furthermore, in relation to its application on fruits and vegetables, it has presented different effects on concentration of nutritional and bioactive compounds, quality, and sensorial aspects. This chapter will highlight the performance of hydrogen peroxide as a postharvest antimicrobial agent.