Agrigold™, an alternative disinfectant with superior bactericidal efficacy

Disinfectants are used in fruit pack house facilities to ensure good pack house hygiene and prevent postharvest disease development. Agrigold™, a copper compound, was tested as a bacterial and fungicidal disinfectant in pack houses on several subtropical crops and potatoes in South Africa. The product showed superior bactericidal efficacy and, when used in combination with a fungicide, could control postharvest fungi to extend shelf life and maintain fruit quality. Additionally, it enhanced the efficacy of fungicides that contained the active ingredients imazalil sulphate and prochloraz. Results showed that Agrigold's efficacy as a disinfectant was not dependent on pH, compatible with two fungicides commonly used for postharvest microorganism control and had a low environmental impact. The latter product could therefore be added to the range of disinfectants available to optimise the control of postharvest diseases of potato and various fruits.