Disinfection

Preharvest agricultural disinfection is the process of sanitizing crops, soil, water, and equipment before harvest to minimize microbial contamination, pests, and diseases. It enhances food safety, extends shelf life, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards. Methods include chemical treatments like chlorine-based disinfectants, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid and quats, as well as biological and physical approaches such as beneficial microbes, UV light, and steam. These measures help prevent disease transmission, maintain produce quality, and reduce post-harvest losses while adhering to food safety guidelines.