A potential role of nitric oxide in postharvest pest control: A review

Abstract

Novel methods of stored-product pest control are essential to greater success against a wide variety of pest species worldwide, especially in tropical regions. Modern methods such as ozonation and organic pesticides have ensured grain preservation without loss of quality and without the accumulation of residues; these properties are considered fundamental to food safety. Thereby, nitric oxide (NO) is a newly discovered fumigant that has shown the potential to control stored product pests. It has also been described as a substitute for phosphine and sulfuryl fluoride. In this regard, NO has the potential to become an alternative method of postharvest pest control, primarily due to its high pest mortality rate from a broader range of pests and products. However, research is needed to reduce the impact of NO on food quality due to the high reactive power of NO. Potentially toxic residues, such as the primary forms of NO oxidation, NO2− and NO3−, can accumulate in treated products and damage consumers' health. Further research is needed into the possible use of NO fumigation as an alternative practice in controlling stored grain pests.