Biotechnology of Horticultural Commodities

Abstract This chapter was written with the goal to show the reader different strategies carried out in different horticultural commodities to induce desirable characteristics such as reduction in the number of spoiled commodities, fruits with longer time in optimal quality and positive nutritional effects upon vegetable and fruit consumption. Although the different attempts to improve the horticultural commodities were not completely successful, it is possible to envision the utilization of fruits and vegetables to deliver several nutrients and health-promoting compounds to the consumer. In addition the creation of commodities with prolonged shelf life will most likely reduce the postharvest losses. The development of horticultural commodities with better nutritional qualities, along with the reduction in the postharvest losses, will improve human nutrition.