Biological control of postharvest diseases of fruits and vegetables by microbial antagonists

Biological control of postharvest diseases of fruits and vegetables by microbial antagonists is a safe and effective method.During the last two decades,huge information and advances concerning the selection of antagonists,mode of action and different approaches to enhance biocontrol activity have been achieved,and some biofungicides are already in the market.Nonetheless,it is necessary to continue finding new potential microorganisms,better understanding the mode of action,and pathogen,antagonist and host interactions,to increase the potential of biocontrol,and turn into a real alternative to chemical synthetics.This article presents an overview of postharvest biological control studies and explores new research possibilities to improve biocontrol activity.