Efficacy ofCandida oleophila strain 182 in preventingPenicillium expansum infection of nectarine fruits

The potential of the yeastCandida oleophila for postharvest control ofPenicillium expansum infection on nectarines was assessed on wound-inoculated fruits held at 20°C, or at 0°C in either air or controlled atmosphere storage. In addition, the efficacy of a prestorage dip with a yeast suspension, the fungicide dicloran, or a combination of the two, for controlling natural infections following storage was examined.C. oleophila reduced the level of infection caused byP. expansum in harvested nectarines. The yeast’s effectiveness was not reduced by controlled atmosphere storage or by application together with the commercial fungicide dicloran.