Control biológico de fitopatógenos en postcosecha mediante levaduras: Un enfoque sostenible para la protección de frutas y hortalizas. Revisión bibliográfica

Abstract

Biological control using antagonistic yeasts represents a sustainable, effective, and environmentally safe alternative to conventional chemical fungicides for managing postharvest diseases in fruits and vegetables. Postharvest losses due to fungal diseases can reach up to 50% of global production, generating significant economic impacts and compromising food security (Hernandez-Montiel et al., 2021). This bibliographic review comprehensively examines the historical background of biological control with yeasts, the diverse mechanisms of action employed by these antagonistic microorganisms, the synergies obtained through their combination with other integrated management strategies, and future perspectives for their commercial application. Special emphasis is placed on environmental benefits, reduction of chemical residues in food, and advantages for global food security. Antagonistic yeasts act through multiple simultaneous mechanisms: competition for space and essential nutrients, production of specific antimicrobial compounds, direct mycoparasitism, formation of protective biofilms, and induction of systemic resistance in host tissues. Despite their demonstrated potential and available commercial products, important challenges remain regarding efficacy variability under different conditions, production and formulation costs, and market and consumer acceptance. Recent advances in OMIC technologies, genetic improvement, and innovative formulations promise to overcome these limitations and expand the practical application of this biocontrol strategy in the coming years.