Produce Degradation Pathways and Prevention

(Romina) #1

Structure and Function of Complex Carbohydrates in Produce 587


in the loss of green color in plants. Yellow vegetables and dehydrated surfaces on
fruits are unappealing to consumers. Soil contamination provides the opportunity
for microbial pathogens to thrive. Microbes could tenaciously binds to cell surfaces
and produce enzymes to break down cell wall polysaccharides to simple sugars for
their own use. If this occurs, poor-quality produce with damaged surfaces will result.
Some fungi are well known for producing toxins that make fruit unhealthy and
unappealing for consumers.


ACKNOWLEDGEMENT


Authors are thankful to Mr. Danny A. Iman for assistance in preparing this manuscript.


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