Integrated Post-Harvest Management Approaches for Enhancing Shelf Life and Marketability of Mango

Abstract

Mango (Mangifera indica L.), universally recognized as the "king of fruits," holds a preeminent position in global horticulture, particularly within the Indian economy. Despite India contributing approximately 40% of global production with an annual output of 26.23 million tonnes, the sector faces significant challenges, including post-harvest losses estimated between 20% and 30%. This comprehensive review examines the critical physiological and biochemical factors influencing post-harvest quality, including climacteric respiration patterns, ethylene biosynthesis, and enzymatic cell wall degradation. This study includes current and emerging management strategies ranging from primary field operations to advanced food informatics, computational and biotechnological interventions. Key areas of focus include maturity determination indices, pretreatment technologies such as hot water treatment (HWT) and irradiation, innovative packaging solutions like Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), and the application of edible coatings. Furthermore, the review explores cutting-edge developments in gene editing (CRISPR/Cas9) and non-thermal processing techniques like Pulsed Electric Fields (PEF), and the transformative role of food informatics in predictive modelling, real-time quality monitoring, supply chain optimization, and data-driven decision-making for minimizing post-harvest losses. By synthesizing recent research findings and technological advancements, this review aims to provide a holistic framework for minimizing losses and enhancing the global marketability of Indian mangoes.