HORIZON-CL6-2026-02-FARM2FORK-01 Developing innovative phytosanitary treatments for regulated plant pests

1) Development of innovative post-harvest treatments for fruits and vegetables

§Develop and validate sustainable post-harvest treatments to reduce pest risks (e.g., active and edible coatings* or UV-C treatment + post-harvest storage under controlled atmosphere, electrolyzed water, Radiant Energy Vacuum REV - vacuum dehydration).

§Develop natural extracts obtained from subproducts valorization for phytosanitary applications.

§Encapsulation of active substances (biopesticides, for example) in bio-based matrices (e.g., pectins isolated from citrus peels, husks and straws from cereal processing, cellulose and hemicellulose, and combinations of them, etc.). Formulations can be designed for delayed release, temperature sensitivity, varying solubility, or sequential release of active substances.

2)Validation, performance assessment and standardization

§Conduct pilot-scale validation of the treatments simulating real post-harvest and logistics conditions.

§Evaluate impacts on food quality, safety, and shelf-life, ensuring treatments are compatible with EU food safety and trade regulations.

§Analytical tests for trace substances in the final products.

§Market study on European consumer perception (surveys in different EU countries).

§Support methods/treatments’ adaptation to existing industrial post-harvest lines to ensure practical implementation.

§Contribute to protocol design and standardization of the treatment procedures (dose, duration, etc.).

Contribute to guidelines development to ensure repeatability, regulatory compliance, and safety.