Trends in pomegranate sector: production, postharvest handling and marketing

Abstract

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) tree was one of the first cultivated crops in the world and is being produced in many regions of the earth for many years. However, its consumption was very low mainly due to the hassle of extracting the arils for eating. Studies after 21th century reported superior pharmacological and therapeutic properties for pomegranate. Results of these studies caused a considerable increase in the consumption and this caused an increase in demand which required increase in the production to meet the demand. The need for increasing the production has led new studies about the challenges affecting production, postharvest handling and marketing of pomegranate fruits. This review aimed to discuss recent studies and technologies about pomegranate production.