Evaporative Coolers for the Postharvest Management of Fruits and Vegetables


Book Description

Evaporative Coolers for the Postharvest Management of Fruits and Vegetables covers world demand for food of high quality without chemical preservatives and with extended shelf life. The book provides the practical application of evaporative coolers, with a strong focus on postharvest management and fruit/vegetable science as high moisture foods are highly perishable. Special emphasis is laid on the impact of the evaporative coolant structure on the nutritional and food safety content of fresh produce. Moreover, the book covers the effect of evaporative coolant structure towards the reduction of spoilage microorganisms responsible for the spoilage of post-harvest losses of various fruits and vegetables. Edited by a team of specialists, this title also helps people dealing with microbiology understand how this simple technology can help improve product quality for communities that currently lack access to cooling or have unreliable power supplies. - Thoroughly explores shelf-life extensions that can be achieved when applying evaporative cooling - Covers postharvest management through evaporative cooling - Brings food and consumer science aspects from evaporative cooled fruits and vegetables - Presents information on the interaction of edible coatings towards the extension of climacteric and non-climacteric fruits




Engineering Principles, Modeling and Economics of Evaporative Coolers


Book Description

Engineering Principles, Modelling and Economics of Evaporative Coolers covers the basic engineering and technical principles behind the operation and construction of evaporative coolers, also highlighting challenges. The book presents the reader with selected case studies on modelling in the cooling chamber and explains the economic implications an evaporative structure can bring. Edited by a team of specialists, the book also explains the strong dependence of the technology's performance on environmental conditions, and hence the limits on temperature control in the preservation of post-harvest agriculture products. Evaporative coolers are an ancient technology, invented long before the introduction of chemical refrigerants as used in modern fridges or cooling towers. This two volume set covers the topic, with practical applications, construction techniques, and operation of the technology. - Thoroughly explores unit operations and engineering principles of evaporative coolers - Includes CFD modelling on evaporative cooling structures - Covers the economics of evaporative coolers




Crop Post-Harvest: Science and Technology, Volume 1


Book Description

World-wide losses of crops, post-harvest, through microbial action,pests, diseases and other types of spoilage amount to millions oftons every year. This essential handbook is the first in athree-volume series which covers all factors affecting post-harvestquality of all major fruits, vegetables, cereals and other crops.Compiled by members of the world-renowned Natural ResourcesInstitute at the University of Greenwich, Chatham, UK, thecomprehensive contents of this landmark publication encourageinteractions between each sector of the agricultural community inorder to improve food security, food safety and food quality intoday’s global atmosphere. Through the carefully compiled and edited chapters,internationally respected authors discuss ways to improve harvestyield and quality, drawing on their many years’ practicalexperience and the latest research findings, applications andmethodologies. Subjects covered include: an introduction to thesystems used in post-harvest agricultural processes, physical andbiological factors affecting post-harvest commodities, storageissues, pest management, food processing and preservation, foodsystems, the latest research and assimilation of this work, andcurrent trade and international agreements. An invaluable glossaryshowing important pests, pathogens and plants is alsoincluded. Crop Post-Harvest: Science and Technology Volume 1: Principlesand Practice is a must-have reference book which offers the readeran overview of the globalisation of post-harvest science,technology, economics, and the development of the storage andhandling of perishable and durable products. Volumes 2 and 3 willgo on to explore durables and perishables individually in moredetail, with many case studies taken from around the globe. This 3-volume work is the standard handbook and reference forall professionals involved in the harvesting, shipping, storage andprocessing of crops, including agricultural and plant scientists,food scientists and technologists, microbiologists, plantpathologists, entomologists and all post harvest, shipping andstorage consultants. Libraries in all universities and researchestablishments where these subjects are studied and taught shouldhave multiple copies on their shelves







Chitosan-Based Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications


Book Description

Chitosan-Based Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications explores the use of chitosan-based nanoparticles as a sustainable solution for the development of improved therapeutic and diagnostic techniques. A range of biomedical applications is reviewed, including treatment against highly resistant bacteria and parasites; tissue regeneration; drug delivery, and more. Moreover, the application of chitosan-based nanoparticles for the effective delivery of hormones, vaccines, phytochemicals, nutraceuticals, and their application in immobilization of enzymes is also discussed in detail. This book provides a state-of-the-art overview for materials scientists, pharmaceutical scientists, and researchers with an interest in the development of novel materials for therapeutics. - Provides a comprehensive overview of chitosan-based nanoparticles, from extraction, synthesis and characterization to biomedical applications, clinical trials and toxicological considerations - Covers a range of biomedical applications, including nutraceuticals, wound healing, antimicrobial treatment, cancer therapeutics, and more - Utilizes an interdisciplinary approach, combining materials science, biochemistry, and bioscience inputs to appeal to a broad audience




Cold Chain Management for the Fresh Produce Industry in the Developing World


Book Description

Global food losses are a result of a lack of necessary infrastructure, improper food safety handling procedures, and insufficient training for the personnel working in the cold chain. The development of a resource-efficient and energy-smart food supply chain requires a well-integrated evaluation and development of the cold chain. Cold Chain Management for the Fresh Produce Industry in the Developing World provides a comprehensive review of the benefits of an unbroken cold chain in developing countries and focuses on the critical role of extension education in the implementation of cold chain management. The unbroken cold chain is essential for all stakeholders in the fresh produce industry to maintain the quality and safety of food products during handling, transporting, and storing in their journey from producer to consumer. Appropriate cold chain management is crucial not only to reduce the postharvest losses and wastages, but also to increase farmers' income, generate employment opportunities, and improve the livelihood of stakeholders along the supply chain. Key Features: Includes case studies for promoting the expansion of existing technologies for cold chain development in Asian, Africa and the Caribbean nations. Assesses cold chain management as crucial to the growth of global trade in perishable products with contributions from international organizations, researchers and commercial experts. Articulates resilient, sustainable and creative concepts to develop cold chains to enhance food distribution. This book comprises of chapters contributed by the experts and practitioners of cold chain development in developing countries. The authors in the book provide the scenario of cold chain management in the world and discuss the importance of the cold chain as well as the different options and innovations of cooling systems. Chapters also include case studies, success stories, capacity building activities, and other opportunities in cold chain development.







Postharvest Physiology and Handling of Horticultural Crops


Book Description

The increase in global population compels growers to use excessive fertilizers to enhance agricultural production. Excessive fertilizer use may also negatively affect the nutritional quality and preservation of horticultural products, reducing the shelf life and overall quality of fruits and vegetables. Postharvest Physiology and Handling of Horticultural Crops contains fundamental information that helps readers understand postharvest physiology of fresh fruits and vegetables, and presents an in-depth analysis of the harmful impacts of agrochemicals. The book presents readers with eco-friendly, innovative techniques used to handle the fruits and vegetables during storage and through supply chains helping to better preserve them. Features · Describes available technologies to eliminate and minimize microbial infection for maintaining postharvest quality and safety of fresh produce. · Explores and discusses approaches, technologies, and management practices necessary to maintain products’ storage quality by ensuring food safety and nutrition retention. · Provides practical applications of latest developments in disinfection applications, smart packaging, nano-enabled applications, advances in fresh-cut products, light illumination and edible coatings. · Presents an in-depth discussion of the harmful impacts of agrochemicals and aims to introduce new, eco-friendly and innovative technologies to the readers. With chapters written by experts in the field of postharvest fruit and vegetable preservation, this book provides information on the use of biomaterials in food preservation and provides practical information for students, teachers, professors, scientists, farmers, food packers and sellers; as well as entrepreneurs engaged in the fresh food preservation industry.




Nanotechnology Advancement in Agro-Food Industry


Book Description

This book provides a comprehensive insight into the growth of nanotechnology in the agri-food industry. Currently, nanotechnology serves as the most promising means to resolve the issues encountered in the food sector, as it enables the production of high-quality food with exceptional characteristics such as extended shelf life, flavor, freshness, and high nutritional content. This book focuses on the applications of nanotechnology in various fields such as smart packaging, processing, and preservation of food. It also emphasizes the role of nanomaterials in strategic design of nutraceuticals and functional foods. Along with providing an overview of the innovations and application, this book also describes future perspectives, and offers insights to ensure consumer confidence in terms of safe use. In this context the application of nanomaterials as nanosensors is additional covered. The book provides readers with a deep knowledge regarding nanomaterials-based biosensors (colorimetric, electrochemical, fiber-based) for detection of pathogens in contaminated food. Factors affecting risk assessment regulations and safety concerns regarding the use of nanomaterials in food industry have also been discussed in detail. Given its scope, this book appeals to a wider readership, especially for researchers and students who work in food agronomy and nanomaterials and nanotechnology related fields.




Innovations in Nanomaterials-Based Corrosion Inhibitors


Book Description

As industries strive for greater efficiency and longevity in their metal infrastructure, corrosion remains a persistent and costly adversary. Traditional corrosion inhibitors often fail to provide long-term protection, leading to significant economic losses and environmental harm. Innovations in Nanomaterials-Based Corrosion Inhibitors delves into a thorough exploration of the rapidly evolving field of nanomaterials and their pivotal role in corrosion inhibition. This comprehensive guide offers a transformative solution utilizing the power of nanotechnology to combat corrosion with unparalleled effectiveness. Within the pages of this book lies a wealth of knowledge meticulously curated to address the pressing need for advanced corrosion inhibition strategies. From understanding the fundamental principles of corrosion to exploring the innovative applications of nanomaterials, it equips readers with the tools to revolutionize their approach to metal protection. With a precise analysis of the synthesis, characterization, and practical implementation of diverse nanomaterials, encompassing nanoparticles, nanocomposites, and nanostructured coatings, and a primary focus on safeguarding metal surfaces against corrosion, this book creates the much-needed reference for shaping the future of corrosion inhibitors. Innovations in Nanomaterials-Based Corrosion Inhibitors offers a roadmap to overcoming corrosion challenges and heralding a new era of sustainability and cost-effectiveness. By embracing nanotechnology, industries can enhance the durability of their metal infrastructure while minimizing environmental impact and maximizing economic efficiency.