Glucosinolates and their hydrolysis products as a sustainable strategy in the control of postharvest diseases in non-Brassicaceae fruits and vegetables

Postharvest losses in fruits and vegetables represent a critical challenge for global food security and sustainability, accounting for up to 28–55 % of total production in some regions. Conventional control strategies, largely based on synthetic fungicides and physical treatments, face increasing limitations due to concerns over resistance development, chemical residues and environmental impact. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of glucosinolates (GSLs) and their hydrolysis products (GHPs) as promising biocidal agents for the management of postharvest diseases in non-Brassicaceae fresh produce. We summarize current knowledge on the chemical nature, biosynthesis and hydrolytic activation of GSLs, as well as their mechanisms of action against key postharvest pathogens, including fungi, oomycetes and bacteria. Furthermore, we critically examine application strategies—such as biofumigation, plant extracts, volatile release, and the use of commercial or modified GHPs—along with their reported efficacy in in vitro and in vivo studies. The review highlights knowledge gaps related to mechanistic understanding, formulation stability, and industrial scalability, outlining future research directions to translate these compounds into sustainable and commercially viable solutions for reducing postharvest losses. • Tissues/extracts rich in GSLs/GHPs can effectively control postharvest diseases. • The antimicrobial activity is due to both specific GSLs and GHPs. • The hydrolysis of GSLs to GHPs increases their postharvest protection capacity. • Combining it with other postharvest protection strategies increases its efficiency.