Yeast-based biofungicides for controlling fungal diseases in fruits and vegetables
Innovative yeast-based biofungicides utilize microencapsulation techniques to control fungal diseases in fruits and vegetables. These biofungicides are effective in both preharvest and postharvest applications, reducing disease incidence by up to 100% without affecting fruit quality.
Overview
The yeast-based biofungicides developed by Tecnológico Nacional de México offer a groundbreaking solution for controlling fungal diseases in fruits and vegetables. By utilizing yeasts isolated from fruit surfaces and microencapsulating them with biopolymers, these biofungicides exhibit significant antifungal activity. They are suitable for both preharvest and postharvest applications, effectively reducing disease incidence and severity by 70-100% across a wide range of fruits such as mango, avocado, jackfruit, and blueberries, without compromising fruit quality.
Technical specifications
Microencapsulation Methods:
- Spray Drying (SD)
- Electrospraying (ES)
- Solution Blow Spraying (SBSp)
These techniques employ biopolymers to protect the yeast, ensuring viability, controlled release, and protection against UV radiation. The yeasts combat fungal pathogens through mechanisms such as parasitism, production of volatile organic compounds, and competition for space and nutrients.
Application:
- Preharvest use in the field
- Postharvest use in refrigerated storage
Tested Fruits:
- Mango, avocado, jackfruit, blueberry, lemon, orange, papaya
Technology readiness level
The yeast-based biofungicides are at Technology Readiness Level 6. They have been validated in relevant environments and are ready for further testing and potential commercial deployment. Continuous validation is planned to enhance efficacy against new pathogens and under varying environmental conditions.
About Tecnológico Nacional de México
Tecnológico Nacional de México is a national public system of technological institutes operating across the country, combining large‑scale engineering education with applied research. Industry engagement is embedded through a for‑credit professional residency required for undergraduates, placing students in companies to deliver scoped projects under joint academic and external supervision. Campuses maintain Technology Management and Industry Liaison offices that broker collaborations, and a multi‑campus incubation network supports venture creation and early prototyping. Projects are funded through competitive programs administered by TecNM and external sponsors. Technology transfer and IP support through liaison offices and incubators streamline sponsored research and commercialization.
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