Next-generation non-thermal technologies for sustainable postharvest preservation: a five-dimensional evaluation framework for climate-smart food systems
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Traditional thermal preservation methods effectively ensure microbial safety, but often compromise nutritional quality and sensory attributes while requiring substantial energy input. This study presents a structured narrative review of next-generation, non-thermal preservation technologies using a five-dimensional evaluation framework encompassing microbial safety, nutritional and sensory quality, environmental sustainability, economic feasibility, and regulatory or social acceptance. Relevant literature published between 2000 and 2025 was identified through systematic searches of major databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect) using predefined keywords and screening criteria. Six non-thermal technologies: cold plasma, ozonation, electrolyzed water, high-pressure processing, pulsed electric fields, and selected hybrid systems were comparatively analysed within this framework. The results indicate that, while individual technologies demonstrate strengths in specific dimensions, hybrid approaches show improved overall performance by balancing microbial inactivation, quality retention, and sustainability considerations. However, practical implementation remains constrained by challenges, including high capital costs, limited standardisation, and evolving regulatory pathways, particularly for hybrid systems. The findings highlight the importance of integrated, multi-criteria evaluation for selecting appropriate preservation strategies and emphasise the need for further research into process optimisation, regulatory alignment, and scalable system design to support sustainable postharvest food systems.
Language: English
Subfield: Biotechnology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,638
OpenAlex ID: W7162186438