The Preservation and Protection of Fresh Produce Using Aerosolized Biocides - A Feasibility study

Food production, supply and security are an emerging global threat and a major aspect of food security is to understand the food supply chain, to maximise its efficiency and reduce food losses where possible. Fresh produce and food processing infrastructure harbour a complex microbial community, which can contribute to product degradation, and have the potential to adversely affect human health. The outcome of this research has significant implications for both food security and food safety through developing environmentally compatible crop protection and food preservation techniques. Health benefits include improved food security, by reducing wastage and extending food storage, transport and retail life; and improved food quality and food safety. Environmental and Industry benefits include increased productivity; more sustainable crop production; enablement of strategic cropping through longer-term storage of products so suppliers can meet market demands more efficiently; reduced carbon and water footprint through more efficient disinfection protocols and energy savings. This is achieved with a low toxicity pesticide that leaves no environmental legacy.