Print Syllabus

Syllabus

BI1395 Postharvest - Biology and Technology, 15.0 Credits

Postharvest - biologi och teknologi

Subjects

Horticultural Science Biology Biology Horticultural science

Education cycle

Bachelor’s level

Modules

Title	Credits	Code
Single module	15.0	ENDA

Advanced study in the main field

First cycle, has at least 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Bachelor’s level (G2F)

Grading scale

Language

English

Prior knowledge

Courses corresponding to 60 credits in biology or horticultural science.

Objectives

The objectives of the course are to provide biological and technological knowledge for how quality of horticultural products can be maintained after harvest, as well as knowledge of which factors affect quality after harvest of horticultural products and how losses can be reduced. The course will provide an in-depth understanding of physiology, handling and technology for the postharvest period of horticultural products, from harvest to consumption.

After completing the course, the student shall be able to:

• demonstrate in-depth knowledge of biochemistry, physiology and structures of horticultural products that are important for harvest management and storage

• discuss different quality standards for horticultural products, as well as regulation associated with these

• account for different technologies in connection with storage and distribution, such as different cooling techniques, controlled atmosphere, as well as new technology development

• account for methods for quality assessment and sorting

• assess how genetic background, various environmental factors before and after harvest, packaging techniques, as well as handling during storage and distribution affect the quality and durability of horticultural products

• demonstrate knowledge of the importance of horticultural products for human nutrition and food safety

• describe regulation in laws, as well as voluntary certifications, concerning food safety, traceability and production systems, and discuss the importance of different certifications

• have knowledge of the product development and innovation process for new products.

Content

The course includes the following sections:

• Genetic, physiological and plant pathological factors, as well as cultivation techniques and other environmental factors, which affect sustainability and quality.

• Factors that affect ripening processes, as well as maturity indices for fruits. Grading and sorting of horticultural products. Sensory quality - colour, shape and taste.

-Measures to maintain quality and reduce postharvest losses, including cold chain, packaging materials, modified and controlled atmosphere and storage techniques.

• Techniques for determining and analysing raw material quality and fruit ripening, as well as quality of processed foods.

• Identification and description of various pathological and physiological diseases after harvest, and causes of these

• Nutritional quality and content of fruits, berries and vegetables that affect health, as well as factors that affect the levels of these substances.

-Food safety for horticultural products and regulations inside and outside the EU.

• Food waste: measures to limit waste at all stages and possible alternative uses for by-products.

• Product development and innovation as a process

The course is a distance learning and online course and includes web-based modules and elective laboratory sessions on the Alnarp campus. Laboratories are optional and can be replaced with tasks. Scheduled guest lectures, seminars, tutorials and presentations are mandatory.

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

The examination consists of submission and reporting of practical classes (can be replaced by other assignment) plus written and/or oral examination. To pass the course, pass grades in examination and assignments, approved participation in exercises, laboratory work (or other assignment) and seminars is required.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Responsible department

Department of Plant Breeding