Modern methods of storage and packaging of garden strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) (review)

Postharvest treatment of garden strawberries and the development of effective storage methods are crucial to increase the shelf life and preserve its quality until consumption. Although some reviews on certain treatment technologies have been published, we have not found studies that considered and compared common and advanced methods of storing garden strawberries. Therefore, the goal of this study is to review modern postharvest methods of strawberry storage (Fragaria × ananassa Duch). The review includes reports published in English and Russian in 2014—2024. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Elibrary and Google Scholar databases were used to search by keywords. 50 scientific publications have been studied. In the first part of our study, the metabolic and biochemistry processes that underlie the ripening process of strawberries are considered, the factors that cause spoilage of strawberry berries are analyzed, and modern methods of strawberry treatment are presented. The preservation of garden strawberries using radiation, light or heat treatment can prevent the development of microorganisms and increase the resistance of berries to diseases. However, these methods can have a negative impact on the nutritional value, color and taste of berries over time. Cold storage is the most commonly used method of storing garden strawberries after harvest throughout the supply chain. In addition to cold storage, post-harvest treatment methods, including thermal, cold plasma and chemical treatments, have been carefully studied and individually applied to further increase of the strawberry shelf life. These treatments help to prevent fungal infection, activate the metabolic protection system and improve the structural integrity of strawberry berries, thereby maintaining their quality over time, especially during cold storage. In addition to treatment methods, storage in a modified atmosphere, the application of active packaging and functional coatings have been recognized as effective ways to preserve the quality of berries and effectively prevent spoilage after harvest. In addition, the combined use of two or more of these methods has proven to be the most effective for improving the shelf life of garden strawberries. The analysis of the antifungal effectiveness of modern storage methods, study of the synergy between different methods and the development of solutions based on biopolymers represent a key path for future research.