Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

Meeting minutes

1. Introduction, approval of previous minutes, Jorge Fonseca

2. Welcome from Administrative Advisor, Scott Senseman

Topic: Updates about Multistate project policies and procedures

3. Support to research, Jodi Williams

Topic: NIFA funding opportunities for the field. Presentation via zoom to the group.

USDA priorities:

Addressing climate change

Creating market opportunities

Tacking food and nutrition insecurity

Advancing racial justice

Described different AFRI programs available with funding for researchers

Foundational and Applied Sciences

Education and Workforce development

Sustainable agricultural systems

Food safety and defense program up to $650 k for 3-5 years (closed)

Noel foods and Innovative manufacturing technologies up to $650 k for 3-5 years (closed)

Mitigating Antimicrobial Resistance Across the Food chain, up to $1 million for up to 5 yrs (closed)

Nanotechnology  for Ag and Food Systems (closed)

Food Safety Outreach Program up to $400k over 3 yrs (open)

Food Science and Nutrition (for small businesses, faculty can partner with SB to apply) up to $650k

Equipment grant programs, up to $500k over 3 years. Deadline not posted for FY25

Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) - Plan breeding and genetics (27% of funding), food safety (10% of funding), CAPs up to $2 million over 5 years.

Question from Jeff Brecht on where would a CI project better fit.

Randy Beaudry asked about the differences between integrated and research projects: Integrated are the research and extension projects. The food safety projects are the only integrated once 

Clarification: USDA cannot apply to equipment program

4. IFPA ongoing work / technology research needs, Max Teplinski, IFPA

Teplinski presented opportunities to collaborate with the industry

Fresh Field Catalyst

$25 million funding from USDA to remove tariff barriers.

Money invested into packaging.

IFPA will find researchers/products that have product ready to scale up

Flyers available with contact info on the program manager

He gave an overview of the situation about packaging in the EU and Canada

Jeff Brandenburg gave updates on the situation of the use of plastics in Canada

Brandenburg mentioned:

Canada is looking into functionality of packaging

EU has a different distribution system than the US

PLU stickers are a contaminant and create issues on the compostability

5. Background, Jeff Brecht

Brecht gave a short history description of S294, how it was put together, evolved and the reason why the meeting is happening at the annual IFPA meeting. Fresh-cut symposium poster to introduce the group to the international community. International members used to be common. History of past members and projects that were put together thanks to S294 participation.

6. Elections - Succesion of officers

The following officers changed positions as per the bylines (2 year terms): 

Jorge Fonseca moves to past Chair

Tie Liu moves to Chair

Angelos Deltsidis moves to vice Chair

Toktam Taghavi moves to Secretary

Karin Albornoz is the first nomination for Secretary

Marlee Trandel is the second nomination for Secretary 

A formal vote will be held in the 2025 meeting to fill the secretary position for 2026.

7. Meeting adjourned

Objective 1. Evaluate methods of sampling and measuring flavor and nutrition of fresh-cut products to facilitate comparison to traditional shelf life factors:

Effect of antimicrobial washing solutions on the overall shelf-life of cantaloupes. The application of chlorine-based sanitizers, chlorine dioxide, and peracetic acid did not negatively affect the shelf life of cantaloupes. (Hansel A. Mina, Adriana Vanegas-Torres, Amanda J. Deering, Purdue)

Effect of antimicrobial washing solutions on the overall shelf-life of watermelons. The application of chlorine-based sanitizers, chlorine dioxide, and peracetic acid improved significantly the shelf-life of watermelons as compared to the application of water only. (Hansel A. Mina, Adriana Vanegas-Torres, Amanda J. Deering, Purdue)

Strawberry anthocyanins, extraction, assessments and storage. A total of nine organic and water-based solvents (methanol and chloroform: methanol, acetone, ethanol, water) and their combinations were compared to extract anthocyanins from freshly-pureed strawberries. Solvents changed anthocyanin yield, color parameters, and profile. The best solvents for anthocyanin assessment were methanol and methanol: water. The second-best solvent was the pH differential buffers. Other solvents such as ethanol, chloroform: methanol, water, and water-based solvents extracted considerable amounts of anthocyanins; however, they showed some degree of color degradation, evidenced by the color parameters. The extraction solvent determined the main anthocyanin of the anthocyanins profile. Pelargonidin was the major anthocyanin in chloroform: methanol solvent, while delphinidin was dominant in all other solvents. (Taghavi T., Patel H., A. Rahemi, VSU)

Effect of Dynamic lighting on the growth of microgreens. The growth and quality of microgreens could be manipulated by using dynamic light setting. (Zhou, B., Luo, Y., Fonseca, J., USDA-ARS, Beltsville)

Application of Ultrasound on produce postharvest practice. Ultrasound can enhance the harvesting efficacy, washing effectiveness and keep the quality. (Zhou, B., Luo, Y., Fonseca, J., De Frias, J.A., USDA-ARS, Beltsville)

Objective 2. Develop new strategies to improve and better maintain inherent fresh-cut product quality and nutrition:

Impact of wine grape growth and processing methods on biochemical (tannin, phenolic) composition and health impacts. In efforts to improve phenolic extraction and color stability of red wine made from cold-hardy grapes at crushing, two winemaking practices, saignée and bentonite, were applied separately and in combination on Marquette grapes.Although differences among treatments in phenolic content, hue shift and certain phenolics were noted, these disappeared over time, suggesting that interactions between tannins and other wine compounds continue to occur after removing proteins in Marquette wines. Addtiionally, accentuated cut edges maceration, a new method for phenolic release, was evaluated for cold-hardy grapes.Results indicated that application of at crushing promotes higher color stability in Marquette red wines. (Watrelot, Iowa State)

US consumers’ awareness, purchase intent, and willingness to pay for packaging that reduces household food waste. Despite the high rate of food waste in US households, little is known about how packaging affects this. This study assessed US consumers' awareness of how structural packaging designs and technologies affect food freshness and their willingness to purchase and to pay extra for packaging designed to reduce household food waste. To gather data, 1000 US consumers were surveyed online. Responses were analyzed overall and by population segments. The impacts of only 3 out of 15 structural packaging designs on maintaining food freshness were known by >50% of consumers. Regarding packaging technologies, while 78% of consumers knew about the impact of vacuum packaging on maintaining food freshness, just 27.6, 23, and 16% knew how modified atmosphere packaging, active packaging, and aseptic packaging affected food freshness. Only 32% of consumers knew that intelligent packaging provides information on food freshness. Just 9% of consumers recognized that foods in plastic pouches and cans possess the same food freshness. Approximately 91% of consumers will always/sometimes buy food in most of the above packaging technologies after learning about them. Half were willing to pay more for food in packages that reduce household food waste, and 40% may. Differences (p ≤ 0.05) and two-way interactions were observed between population segments. This study's findings can help develop new packaging, education campaigns, and policies to reduce household food waste in the US. (Fennel, K.; Almenar, E.; Mahmoudi, M.; Lee, E.; Lu, G., MSU)

Turning agricultural waste into packages for food. Consumer behavior towards packaging containing agricultural waste as a plastic filler for food: An exploratory study. Agricultural waste can be used as a plastic filler during the production of packaging, reducing the environmental impact and raw material consumption while supporting the circular economy. Despite so many efforts being made in development and characterization, consumers’ behavior toward packaging containing agricultural waste as a plastic filler for food is still unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate consumers’ awareness of and liking for packaging containing agricultural waste as a plastic filler and consumers’ perception and purchase intent of food in such packaging. Consumer survey research was conducted using an in-person questionnaire containing Likert scale, hedonic scale, and guide-type questions completed by 86 participants after showing them bread packaged in pouches made of plastic containing agricultural waste and a prompt in August of 2019. The responses were first analyzed as a whole and further evaluated using demographic and psychographic characteristics. Participants liked the use of agricultural waste to produce food packages and were willing to purchase food (bread) in this novel packaging. The aspect “reduction of harmful environmental impacts” was very important to participants if they were to purchase packaging containing agricultural waste. About 50% of participants were unsure of the performance of this packaging in terms of food quality and safety and >25% perceived no effect. Differences (p ≤ 0.05) within the groups for specific demographic and psychographic characteristics and two-way interactions between them were found. This study shows that food packaging containing agricultural waste should be well received and that packaging choices that affect the environment, like packaging containing agricultural waste, depend on consumers’ mindset. Thus, educating consumers could contribute to reducing the packaging impact on the environment and to boosting environmentally friendly packaging acceptance. (Almenar, E. Matuana, L.M.; Fehlberg, J.;  Duguma, H.; McArdlen, A.; Fennel, K.; Cho, S.: Singh, S., MSU)

Predicting Bruising Damage to Apple Fruit under Vibrational Forces in Transportation using Machine Learning. This study developed a Machine Learning (ML) model to predict apple bruising within packages during transportation. The model examined the effects of vibration intensity, duration, profile, packaging type, and apple variety on bruising outcomes. Four common apple packaging types used in distribution were selected for testing. These packages were filled with Jonagold and Fuji apples and tested on a vertical shaker table at the School of Packaging, Michigan State University. Using ML techniques such as linear regression, decision trees, and random forests, we accurately predicted the bruising levels experienced by apples during transit. The results highlighted the critical role of vibration intensity and duration in predicting the bruising damage to apples. Additionally, packaging type was identified as a key factor in protecting apples from vibration-related harm. These predictive models provide valuable insights into the percentage of damage that can occur, helping to pinpoint areas for improvement in packaging design and transportation conditions. Implementing thoughtful solutions based on these findings can significantly reduce the susceptibility of fresh produce to vibration damage during road transport, ultimately lowering postharvest losses and improving the quality of distributed fruit. (Joodaky, A.; Almenar, E., MSU)

Using modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) +/- ethylene scrubbing to maintain the quality of advanced ripeness fruits. To address the issue of transport and temporary storage of ripe fruit, we have been investigating the application of appropriately desigened MAP +/- ethylene scrubbing, either at higher than normal temperatures (tomato) or lower, normally chilling, temperatures (mango). [J.K. Brecht, S.A. Sargent, F. Shahzad, M. Doron, S. Stahl (UFL) and K. Batziakas and E. Pliakoni (KSU) and S. Tonetto de Freitas (Embrapa), UFL]

Efficacy of essential oils for maintaining postharvest quality and reducing decay of blueberry and peach fruits. Thyme oil and oregano oil were evaluated for postharvest control of gray mold on blueberry and brown rot on peaches. Both effective and phytotoxic concentrations were determined. The essential oils are more effective if applied at higher temperature, prior to cold storage, and have been found to not result in persistant aromas that affect consumer satisfaction. (Y. Chang, J.K. Brecht, A. Sarkhosh, and M. Doron, UFL)

Evaluation of elite lettuce breeding lines in St. Johns County: Year 3 – Field performance, postharvest quality and shelf life. Using the Accelerated Shelf Life Test protocol, differences in postharvest quality and shelf life were determined for 15 lettuce cultivars and advanced breeding lines grown in open field. (G. Sandoya and S. Sargent, UFL)

Studies with open field-grown purple passionfruit: Comparison of harvest stage on storage quality. External and internal fruit quality was determined for fruit either clipped from the vine or picked from the ground and stored. Clipped fruits had longer shelf life and pulp quality remained acceptable throughout storage. (Sargent, S., A. Berry, M. Santana, A. Sarkhosh, J. Crane, Raquel Miranda, UFL)

Facilitating postharvest elderberry fruit detachment with ethylene. Non-uniform ripening of elderberry fruit within a cyme is a challenge for growers. Harvested fruit will ripen by holding at 21C for 48 hours. Ethylene treatment for 24 hours will accelerate fruit abscission.(Sargent, S., A. Berry, K. Athearn, A. Sarkhosh, Dave Jarnagin, UFL)

Effects of Alternative Atmosphere Storage on the Postharvest Quality of Georgia-grown Blackberries. Controlled atmosphere (CA) storage and 1 ppm ozone effectively extended the postharvest quality of Georgia-grown blackberries by reducing weight loss and red drupelet reversion. Firmness retention varied by cultivar, with Ouachita showing the highest values. These treatments preserved quality without altering acidity, sugars, or respiration, offering viable options to enhance blackberry shelf-life. (Deltsidis, A., Rubio Ames, Z. and R. Corn, UGA)

Examining the Effect of Storage Temperatures on Chilling Injury Incidence of Georgia-Grown Peaches. Cold storage temperatures were evaluated for their effects on chilling injury (CI) and quality of Georgia-grown peaches. Peaches stored at 34°F (1.1°C) had lower respiration rates, less weight loss, and maintained higher firmness compared to higher temperatures. CI symptoms were observed at 36–46°F after 21 days, but 50°F peaches showed no CI even after 28 days. All tested temperatures were suitable for short-term storage (up to 7 days), with 34°F providing optimal quality retention. (Giannopoulos, O., Chavez, D. and A. Deltsidis, UGA)

Evaluating the Effects of Controlled Atmosphere Storage on Two Georgia-grown Pecan Cultivars. Ongoing research. (Deltsidis, A., and R. Corn, UGA)

Evaluating the Potential of Gaseous Ozone to Suppress Decay Incidence in Fresh Peaches During Cold Storage. Nanobubbles combined with high-oxygen water (HOW) and ozone (O3) were evaluated for postharvest sanitation of peaches. O3 technology negatively impacted fruit quality at high concentrations, causing skin damage and increased decay in some cultivars. The study highlights the potential of nanobubbles to enhance sanitation but underscores the need for optimized O3 concentration and exposure time to minimize adverse effects. (Giannopoulos, O., Chavez, D. and A. Deltsidis, UGA)

Ethylene Degreening to Enhance Coloration of Georgia-Grown Satsuma Citrus Fruit. Ethylene treatment (

Effects of Harvest Regimes on Shelf-life and Quality of Rabbiteye Blueberries. Harvest intervals significantly affected the postharvest quality of rabbiteye blueberries (cv. 'Brightwell'). Shorter intervals (2–3 days) minimized weight loss and berry damage, maintained firmness, and preserved titratable acidity and sugars during storage. Longer intervals (7 days) increased anthocyanin concentrations but resulted in higher weight loss, softer berries, and more damage. A three-day interval offers a balance between quality retention and operational efficiency, providing valuable guidance for blueberry growers aiming to optimize harvest and storage outcomes in warm, humid climates like Georgia. (Deltsidis, A., Rubio Ames, Z, and  Godara, A., UGA)

ML-Enabled Produce Quality Monitoring Platform for Nondestructive Supply Chain Management. We have developed the first version printed circuits board with seven VOC sensors integrated as a sensor array, aiming to leverage multi-sensor readout and machine learning algorithms for improved produce quality monitoring and adulteration applications. With this prototype, we can also perform rigorous characterization of VOC sensors to improve the sensor readout accuracy and to optimize power consumption of the VOC sensor array. (Zhou, B., Luo, Y., Fonseca, J., De Frias, J.A., USDA-ARS, Beltsville)

Light regulation on browning of fresh-cut lettuce. This study investigated the potential of browning control via multi-spectral modulation. Fresh-cut Romaine lettuce was exposed to various light-emitting diode (LED) light conditions during storage at 12 °C: darkness, white light (peak 639 nm), red light (660 nm), UV-A light (385 nm), and blue light (450 nm). The results showed no significant difference in midrib browning between the red light and the darkness treatment. UV-A and white light reduced browning, but it was less effective than the blue light. The results provide new insights into the regulation of browning of fresh-cut lettuce by light quality and highlight the potential utilization of blue LED treatment to reduce browning. (Park, M., Zhu, X., Choi, S., Luo, Y., Yang, T., USDA-ARS, Beltsville)

Objective 3. Improve understanding of physiological mechanisms that affect fresh-cut product quality:

Monitoring the quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut Brassica leafy greens. Influence of harvest season (fall vs. spring) on organoleptic and nutritional quality indicators, including color and total polyphenol content (Albornoz, K., Clemson)

Understanding the physiological and molecular basis of quality degradation in fresh-cut watermelon. Cell wall and membrane parameters monitored during storage. Use of postharvest elicitors could provide alternative methods for quality maintenance. (Cell wall and membrane parameters monitored during storage. Use of postharvest elicitors could provide alternative methods for quality maintenance, Quandoh, E. & Albornoz, K., Clemson)

Use of melatonin to reduce postharvest chilling injury in tomato. Melatonin has been shown to reduce the severity of chilling injury symptoms in tomato; however, the basis of melatonin-induced chilling tolerance is not well understood. Project is in early stages and findings will be shared soon (Albornoz, K., Clemson)

Identifying senescence-associated genes (SAGs) in broccoli and lettuce that have potential to be used as markers of freshness or physiolgical age. A number of genes have been identified that are expressed at different times during the development of senescence. We are working to identify the most reliably expressed genes that strictly identify senescence stages as opposed to, for example, stress, ethylene, or CA/MA conditions. (Liu, T., J.K. Brecht, and E. Pliakoni, UFL)

Examining preharvest genetic and morphological factors contributing to fresh-cut lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) shelf-life. This study presented an innovative approach for identifying preharvest molecular factors linked to postharvest traits for prolonged shelf. We identified several SAGs including several related to jasmonate ZIM-domain  jasmonic acid signaling, chlorophyll a–b binding, and cell wall modification  including pectate lyases and expansins. (Liu T.,  Chase K., Sandoya G., S.A. Sargent, Begcy K., UFL)

Techno-economic analysis, lifecycle assessment and parameter optimization of commercial and novel fresh-cut processing systems. Current project in commercial-scale and novel fresh-cut processing facilities at USDA-ARS aims to conduct a techno-economic analysis (TEA), lifecycle assessment (LCA) and parameter optimization of end-to-end fresh-cut processes. The project builds on previous work by ARS scientists comparing product quality after fresh-cut processing in traditional flume wash (water reused) versus patented technologies based on horizontal and vertical single-pass wash (water not reused). Facilities at ARS will be upgraded to include supervisory control data acquisition (SCADA) to monitor and optimize the wash systems for energy, water, and chemical use, as well as processing parameters (e.g., temperature, flowrates). TEA and LCA will extend beyond ARS facilities to collaborate with fresh-cut processors in the Maryland area to investigate other upstream and downstream aspects of the produce supply chain. The results of this project will provide actionable recommendations to industry on fresh-cut processes and supply chain optimization, energy efficiency and environmental impact. (De Frias, J.A., Zhou, B., Luo, Y., Fonseca, J., USDA-ARS, Beltsville) 

Objective 4. Determine critical factors in controlled inoculation studies with human pathogens and surrogates that influence the outcome of quantitative microbial risk assessments:

UV-C treatment and antimicrobial spray to control decay and food safety risks of apples. UV-C of appropriate dosages are effective in controlling Listeria innocua (surrogate of Listeria monocytogenes) and Botrytis cinerea. (Qingyang Wang, Joy Waite-Cusic, Jovana Kovacevic, Claire Murphy, OSU)

Far-UV (222 nm) technology for controlling pre- and post-harvest fruit decay and reducing food safety risks of berries. Far-UV has the potential as a postharvest waterless decontamination treatment for small fruits. (Qingyang Wang, Wei Yang, Virginia Stockwell, OSU)

Internalization of Salmonella in tomatoes from manure amended soil (in progress). Salmonella can survive in soil up to 72 days and internalized within tomato plants. (Adriana Vanegas-Torres, Hansel A. Mina, Amanda J. Deering, Purdue)

Application of inline sanitizers to inactivate foodborne pathogens from cantaloupes and watermelon (Manuscript  in progress). Inline application of sanitizers resulted on  a greater pathogenic reduction compared to the obtained for the antimicrobials when applied individually. Combination of chlorine base antimicrobials with peracetic acid resulted on the greater reduction achieved by all the treatments. (Hansel A. Mina, Adriana Vanegas-Torres,  Amanda J. Deering, Purdue)

Inactivation of foodborne pathogens under pH-varying conditions in Passion Fruit Juice (Manuscript in progress). Lower passion fruit pH contributed to the inactivation of foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Salmonella and E. coli were reduced by 5 log CFU/mL in a juice with a pH of 2.9, within 8h of storage at room temperature (25°C). (Ximena Yepez, Adriana Vanegas-Torres, Hansel A. Mina, Amanda J. Deering, Purdue)

Internalization of foodborne pathogens in romaine lettuce and cucumber plants following different contamination routes (Manuscript in progress). Bacteria internalize within the cucumber and romaine lettuce plants after growing from contaminated seed. Soil, leaves, and seed contamination promoted the internalization of foodborne pathogens within the cucumber fruits. However, the highest rate of internalization of foodborne pathogens within the fruit  was achieved when blossoms were contaminated. (Hansel A. Mina, Amanda J. Deering, Purdue)

Objective 5. Development and validation of novel diagnostic methods to determine presence of human pathogens and chemical hazards associated with fresh and fresh-cut products:

Capture and Concentration of Bacterial and Viral Foodborne Pathogens from Foods. Magnetic ionic liquid-based capture of norovirus surrogates demonstrated in lettuce wash; Applications of  deep eutectic solvents (DES) for viral capture also underway (M. Moore lab, UMASS-Amherst) (Brehm-Stecher, Anderson, J., Moore, M., Iowa State)

Detection and confirmation of Salmonella Typhimurium by smartphone-enabled optomechanical platform (Published). A smartphone-based quartz crystal microbalance biosensor integrated with a fluorescence imaging system was developed to detect the presence of Typhimurium serotype of Salmonella. The integration heightened sensitivity, establishing a direct correlation between signal frequency, fluorescence intensity, and bacteria concentration. The limit of detection was 10⁵ CFU/mL for Salmonella Typhimurium. Hyun Jung Min, Hansel A. Mina, Amanda J. Deering, Euiwon Bae, Purdue)

Application of a dual-modality colorimetric analysis method to inkjet printing lateral flow detection of Salmonella typhimurium. Our results indicate a detection limit of 10² CFU/mL in PBS and 10³ CFU/mL in romaine lettuce samples. (Ya-Ching Yu, Zhijian Wang, Xiaoyu Ji, Eric Jacob Williamson, Hansel Mina Cordoba, Ana M Ulloa-Gomez, Amanda J Deering, George T-C Chiu, Jan P Allebach, Lia A Stanciu, Purdue)

Clemson University

Refereed Publications

• Albornoz, K., Cabrera-Barjas, G., Lopez M.D., Giordano, A., Bravo-Arrepol, G., Moya, E., San Martin, J., Valdes, O., & Nešić, A. (2024). Influence of chitin nanofibers and gallic acid on physical-chemical and biological performances of chitosan-based films. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.
• Albornoz, K., Hermosilla, A. (2024). Fisiología y Tecnología de Postcosecha de Hortalizas de Hoja de Cuarta Gama: Una Revisión (Postharvest Physiology and Technology of Fresh-Cut Leafy Vegetables: A Review). Chilean Journal of Agricultural & Animal Sciences, 413-429.
• Albornoz, K., Rosas, R., & López, M.D. (2024). Influence of a preharvest melatonin application on postharvest chilling injury in basil (Ocimum basilicum L.). Journal of Horticultural Research.
• Albornoz, K., Zhou, J., Zakharov, F., Grove, J., Wang M., Beckles, D.M. (2024). Ectopic overexpression of ShCBF1 and SlCBF1 in tomato suggests an alternative view of fruit responses to chilling stress postharvest. Frontiers in Plant Science.
• Villarroel, C., & Albornoz, K. (2024). Fisiología de la Maduración y Manejo en Postcosecha de Frutilla Chilena (Fragaria chiloensis) (Ripening Physiology and Postharvest Management of Chilean strawberry (Fragaria chiloensis)). Chilean Journal of Agricultural & Animal Sciences, 198-212.
• Zhang, Y., Dong, S., Guan, J., Liu, X., Xie, X., Albornoz, K., Han, J., Wang, Z., Gu, X., Zhang, S., & Miao, H. (2024). Genome-wide association study identifies candidate genes for bacterial soft rot resistance in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) seedlings. Horticultural Plant Journal.
• Zhou, J., Zhou, S., Chen, B., Sangsoy, K., Luengwilai, K., Albornoz, K., & Beckles, D.M. (2024). Integrative analysis of the methylome and transcriptome of tomato fruit (Solanum lycopersicum L.) induced by postharvest handling. Horticulture Research.

Michigan State University

Refereed Publications

• Almenar, E., Duguma, H., Khule, P., McArdle, A., Fennel, K., & Gratsh, B. (2024). Upcycling agricultural waste into packaging materials for food. COM.PACK, 24-28. Invited.
• Almenar, E., Fennell, K., Duguma, H., Khule, P., McArdle, A., & Gratsh, B. (2024). Upcycling agricultural waste into packaging materials for food. COM.PACK, 24-28.
• Fennell, K., Fehlberg, J., Singh, S., Matuana, L., Cho, S., & Almenar, E. (2024). Consumer behavior towards packaging containing agricultural waste as a plastic filler for food: An exploratory study. Sustainability, 16(3).
• Fennell, K., Lu, G., Mahmoudi, M., Lee, E., & Almenar, E. (2024). US consumers’ awareness, purchase intent, and willingness to pay for packaging that reduces household food waste. Foods, 12(23).
• Keyhan, S., Shirzad, K., Almenar, E., & Joodaky, A. (2024). Transportation vibration effects on apple bruising. Packaging Technology and Science, 37(11), 1065-1071.

Non-Refereed Publications

• Keyhan, S., Khadijeh, S., Almenar, E., & Joodaky, A. (2024). Transportation Vibration Effects on Apple Bruising. Proceedings of the IAPRI 24th World Packaging Conference.
• Keyhan, S., Shirzad, K., Almenar, E., & Joodaky, A. (2024). Impact of packaging and vibration transportation on apple bruising. Proceedings of the IAPRI 24th World Packaging Conference.
• Saldaña, C., Auras, R., Stephens, A., Singh, J., & Almenar, E. (2024). In the face of change: Developing a tool to assess packaging system compliance with emerging regulations. Proceedings of the IAPRI 24th World Packaging Conference.

Iowa State University

Refereed Publications

• Anderson, J.A., Brehm-Stecher, B.F., Clark, K.D., & Hice, S.A. (2023). Capturing, Concentrating and Detecting Microbes in a Sample Using Magnetic Ionic Liquids and Recombinase Polymerase Amplification. United States Patent 12,054,789 B2.
• Anderson, J.A., Brehm-Stecher, B.F., Clark, K.D., & Hice, S.A. (2023). Capturing, Concentrating and Detecting Microbes in a Sample Using Magnetic Ionic Liquids and Recombinase Polymerase Amplification. United States Patent Application US 2024/0336982 A1.
• Bisha, B., & Brehm-Stecher, B. (2024). Paper-Based, Disposable Devices for Microbial and Chemical Detection. Encyclopedia of Food Safety, 2nd Ed., Elsevier, Oxford, UK, 401-412.
• Brehm-Stecher, B., & Siragusa, G. (2024). Microbiomic Profiling of Food Processing Environments and Foods for Food Safety and Quality. Encyclopedia of Food Safety, 2nd Ed., Elsevier, Oxford, UK, 335-347.
• Durand, T.S., Mendonça, A., Fortes-Da-Silva, P., Brehm-Stecher, B., Boylston, T., Thomas-Popo, E., Wan, Z., & White, S. (2024). Inactivation of Salmonella enterica and shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli on desiccated shredded coconut by high voltage atmospheric cold plasma. Front. Food Sci. Technol.
• Gapinski, A.D., Delchier, N., & Watrelot, A.A. (2024). Tannin and Iron-Reactive Phenolics Content in Red Cold-Hardy Hybrid Grape Tissues throughout Development and Ripening. MDPI Foods, 13(7).
• Harner, I., Anast, J., & Brehm-Stecher, B. (2024). Food Safety Applications of Genomic Technologies. Encyclopedia of Food Safety, 2nd Ed., Elsevier, Oxford, UK, 315-334.
• Lewis, B., Mendonça, A., Fortes-Da-Silva, P., Boylston, T., Little, A., Brehm-Stecher, B., Coleman, S., & Jackson-Davis, A. (2023). A combination of high-voltage atmospheric cold plasma and cinnamaldehyde significantly increases inactivation of Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli O157:H7 in raw pineapple juice. LWT, 203: 116380.
• Mendonca, A., Jackson-Davis, A., White, S., Kassama, L.S., Coleman, S., Shaw, A., Mendonca, A., Cooper, B., Thomas-Popo, E., Gordon, K., & London, L. (2023). A Review of Regulatory Standards and Advances in Essential Oils as Antimicrobials in Foods. J. Food Prot., 86(2).
• Moore, M.D., Bisha, B., Anderson, J., & Brehm-Stecher, B. (2024). Sample Preparation for Detection of Microbiological and Chemical Analytes. Encyclopedia of Food Safety, 2nd Ed., Elsevier, Oxford, UK, 285-294.
• Wilson, J.E., Sirpu, N.N., Ghadermazi, P., Pothuraju, R., Prajapati, D.R., Pandey, S., Kaifi, J.T., Dodam, J.R., Bryan, J.N., Lorson, C.L., Watrelot, A.A., Foster, J.M., Mansell, T.J., Joshua Chan, S.H., Batra, S.K., Subbiah, J., & Rachagani, S. (2024). Red Cabbage Juice-Mediated Gut Microbiota Modulation Improves Intestinal Epithelial Homeostasis and Ameliorates Colitis. Int. J. Mol. Sci., 25(1).

Oregon State University

Refereed Publications

• Wang, Q., & Murphy, C.M. Evaluation of an In-Packing Line Far-Ultraviolet-C Light System at Reducing Aerobic Bacteria, Total Coliforms, Yeast, Molds, and Generic Escherichia coli Indicator Organisms on Apple Surfaces. Journal of Food Protection (In review).

Purdue University

Refereed Publications

• Enderton, A., Johnsen, E., Shaw, A., Deering, A.J., & Omolo, M. (2023). Comparing the effectiveness of delivery style in produce safety training for growers. Journal of Food Science, 4551-4562.
• Kong, Y., Deering, A.J., & Nemali, K. (2023). Minimizing Escherichia coli O157:H7 contamination in indoor farming: effects of cultivar type and ultra-violet light quality. Journal of Food Science and Agriculture, 4218-4225.
• Min, H.J., Mina, H.A., Deering, A.J., & Bae, E. (2023). Detection and confirmation of Salmonella Typhimurium by smartphone-enabled optomechanical platform. Sensing for Agriculture and Food Quality and Safety XVI, 124-130.
• Min, H.J., Mina, H.A., Deering, A.J., Rajwa, B., Shin, S., Doh, I.J., Robinson, J.P., & Bae, E. (2023). Detection and confirmation of Salmonella Typhimurium by smartphone-enabled optomechanical platform. SPIE, 81-87.
• Min, H.J., Mina, H.A., Shin, S., Doh, I.J., Robinson, J.P., Rajwa, B., & Deering, A.J. (2023). Detection and confirmation of Salmonella Typhimurium by smartphone-enabled optomechanical platform. Sensing for Agriculture and Food Quality and Safety XVI, 124-130.
• Yu, Y., Wang, Z., Ji, X., Williamson, E.J., Mina, H.C., Ulloa-Gomez, A.M., Deering, A.J., Chiu, G.T-C., Allebach, J.P., & Stanciu, L.A. (2023). Application of a dual-modality colorimetric analysis method to inkjet printing lateral flow detection of Salmonella typhimurium. Microchimica Acta, 1-13.

University of Florida

Refereed Publications

• Ahlawat, Y.K., Ghimire, U., Li, P., Timilsena, P., Pliakoni, E.D., Brecht, J.K., & Liu, T. (2024). Postharvest senescence profiling in broccoli using tandem mass tag-based proteomics. Vegetable Research.
• Belisle, C.E., Sandoya, G.V., Kreutz, G.F., & Sargent, S.A. (2024). Screening Subtropical Lettuce Accessions for Heat Tolerance by Incorporating Accelerated Shelf Life Testing. J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci., 149, 206-216.
• Brinley, A., Conner, P., Yu, F., Sarkhosh, A., & Liu, T. (2024). Morphological and genetic characterization of the muscadine fruit abscission zone. Horticulture Research.
• Chang, L., & Brecht, J.K. (2023). Responses of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP)−treated banana fruit to pre− and post−treatment ethylene exposure. Sci. Hort., 309, 111636.
• Chase, K., Belisle, C., Ahlawat, Y., Yu, F., Sandoya, G., Begcy, K., & Liu, T. (2024). Examining preharvest genetic and morphological factors contributing to lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) shelf life. Scientific Reports, 14, 6618.
• Garcia, E., Koh, J., Wu, X., Sarkhosh, A., & Liu, T. (2024). Tissue-specific proteome profile analysis reveals regulatory and stress-responsive networks in passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) during storage. Scientific Reports, 14, 3564.
• Ghimire, U., Abeli, P., Brecht, J.K., Pliakoni, E., & Liu, T. (2024). Unique molecular mechanisms revealed for the effects of temperature, CA, ethylene exposure and 1-MCP on postharvest senescence of broccoli. Postharvest Biol. Technol., 213, 112919.
• Habibi, F., Voiniciuc, C., Conner, P.J., Shin, D., Kim, J., Brecht, J.K., & Sarkhosh, A. (2024). Nutritional value of peel and flesh of muscadine genotypes: A comparative study on bioactive compounds, total antioxidant activity, and chemical attributes. Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization, 15 p.
• Khalil, U., Rajwana, I.A., Razzaq, K., Singh, S., Sarkhosh, A., & Brecht, J.K. (2024). Evaluation of modified atmosphere packaging system developed through breathable technology to extend postharvest life of fresh muscadine berries. Food Science & Nutrition, 11 p.
• Shahzad, F., Vashisth, T., Ritenour, M.A., & Brecht, J.K. (2023). Huanglongbing disease symptoms and the postharvest quality of ‘LB8-9’ (Sugar Belle®) and ‘Tango’ mandarins as affected by ethylene treatment. Sci. Hort., 310, 111766.
• Vondracek, K.G., Altpeter, F., Liu, T., & Lee, S. (2024). Advances in genomics and genome editing for improving strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa). Frontiers in Genetics, 15.
• Zhang, C., Hoogenboom, G., Ritenour, M.A., Alam-Eldein, S.M., & Sargent, S.A. (2024). Modeling the relationship between postharvest storage conditions and grapefruit quality. J. Agric. Food Res., 16.

Non-Refereed Publications

• Brecht, J.K., Plotto, A., Marín-Gozalbo, A., & Goodrich, R. (2023). Fresh-Cut Mango Best Management Practices Manual. HS1443. UF/IFAS, Gainesville, FL, 31 p.
• Brecht, J.K., Ritenour, M.A., Olmstead, M.A., Sarkhosh, A., Chaparro, J.X., Bartz, J.A., Sargent, S.A., & Van Sickle, J. (2023). Harvesting and Postharvest Handling of Stonefruits in Florida. HS1459. UF/IFAS, Gainesville, FL, 68 p.
• Garcia, E., & Liu, T. Proteomes of distinct tissues of Passiflora edulis fruit reveals key proteins and pathways during postharvest shelf life. Proc. Fla. State Hort. Soc.
• Sarkhosh, A., Habibi, F., & Brecht, J.K. Alleviating astringency in persimmon fruit for enhanced palatability and consumer acceptability. HS1483. UF/IFAS, Gainesville, FL, 7 p.

University of Georgia

Refereed Publications

• Bhattarai, G., Giannopoulos, O., Corn, R. N., McAvoy, C. E., Deltsidis, A., Worthington, M. L., & Conner, P. J. (2023). Analysis of the Aroma Volatile Profile of Muscadine Grape Germplasm by Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction Coupled with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. Horticulturae, 9(9), 1054.
• Díaz-Pérez, J. C., Deltsidis, A., & Cutiño-Jiménez, A. M. (2023). Oxygenation and ozonation of irrigation water and a soil microbial inoculant did not influence tomato plant growth and yield and soil microbiota. International Journal of Vegetable Science, 29(6), 473-480.

Non-Refereed Publications

• Deltsidis, A., Rubio, Z., & Espinoza, N. Blackberry Harvesting and Postharvest Handling. Circular 1282. University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.
• Rubio Ames, Z., Godara, A., & Deltsidis, A. Blueberry Fruit Set, Development, and Ripening. Circular 1294. University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.
• Deltsidis, A., Rubio Ames, Z., & Espinoza, N. Blueberry Harvesting and Postharvest Handling. Circular 1269. University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.
• Giannopoulos, O., Deltsidis, A., & Chavez, D. Peaches: Appropriate Harvest and Postharvest Handling. Bulletin 1555. University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.
• Deltsidis, A., Dunn, L., & Loayza, F. Small Fruit Food Safety Considerations. Circular 1308. University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.
• Deltsidis, A., Rubio Ames, Z., Espinoza, N., & Carcamo, L. (2024). Spanish Series: Cosecha y Manejo Postcosecha de Arándanos. Circular 1269-SP. University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.

Virginia State University

Refereed Publications

• Taghavi, T., Patel, H., & Rahemi, A. (2024). Extracting Strawberry anthocyanins, testing different variables. Acta Hort., 1340: Accepted and Under Publication. Acta Hort, 1404_61, 453-460.

USDA-ARS Beltsville

Refereed Publications

• Bornhorst, E.R., Luo, Y., Park, E., Zhou, B., Turner, E., Teng, Z., Trouth, F., Simko, I., & Fonseca, J.M. (2024). In search of optimum fresh-cut raw material: using computer vision systems as a sensory screening tool for browning-resistant romaine lettuce accessions. Horticulturae, 10(7).
• Gu, G., Ding, Q., Redding, M., Yang, Y., O’Brien, R., Gu, T., Zhang, B., Zhou, B., Micallef, S.A., Luo, Y., Fonseca, J.M., & Nou, X. (2024). Differential microbiota shift on whole romaine lettuce subjected to source or forward processing and on fresh-cut products during cold storage. Horticulturae.
• Park, E., Luo, Y., Bornhorst, E.R., Simko, I., Trouth, F., & Fonseca, J.M. (2024). Leveraging observations of untrained panelists to screen for quality of fresh-cut romaine lettuce. Horticulturae, 10(8).
• Park, E., Luo, Y., Zhou, B., Fonseca, J.M., & Stommel, J.R. (2024). Varied attributes of Jalapeño pepper cultivars influence fresh-cut product quality. Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science, 152-161.
• Peng, H., Luo, Y., Teng, Z., Zhou, B., Pearlstein, D., Wang, D., Turner, E., Nou, X., Wang, T., Tao, Y., Fonseca, J., & Simko, I. (2024). Genome-wide association mapping reveals loci for oxidative discoloration of cut lettuce. Postharv. Bio. Technol.
• Zhou, B., de Frias, J.A., Luo, Y., Fonseca, J., & Feng, H. (2024). Impact of power ultrasound on the quality of leafy green produce through a multifrequency, multimode, modulated system. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, under review.