GB348755A - Improved method of preventing stalk rot in fruit - Google Patents

Abstract

Losses or deterioration of fruit and vegetables are reduced or prevented by rendering the cut surface of the stalks impermeable or difficultly permeable or otherwise resistent to moulds and other microorganisms. The surface of the cut may be treated with sealing materials, e.g. paraffin or other waxes, fats, oils, such as paraffin, cotton seed, linseed, Neats' foot, peanut, palm, or coco nut oils, artificial cellulosic or natural resins, water insoluble soaps, such as an aluminium soap dissolved in a volatile hydrocarbon, or other substances of an oily or wax-like nature, rubber, or mixtures of these substances. Materials which promote adhesion of the substances to or their penetration into the stalks may also be used. Thymol or other antiseptic or fungicidal agents may be added to the materials. The sealing of the cut may also be effected by treating the juice exuding therefrom with coagulants or by application of heat by electric cautery, contact with a hot plate or exposure to a flame. The penetration of the moulds &c. may also be prevented by treating the cut surface with antiseptics e.g. phenolic antiseptics, boric acid, borates, or salts of copper, mercury, iron, or zinc, the surface of the cut being first prepared to secure adhesion of these agents. Sealing may also be effected by caps or capsules of cellulosic or similar material which may be treated with antiseptics or fungicides.