Tuber Storage

Abstract

The current invention concerns a method for sprout removal treatment of tubers, especially potatoes, preferably by fogging a highly concentrated limonene composition. The invention also concerns limonene treated tubers obtainable by said method. The invention further provides limonene compositions suitable for sprout removal by fogging. The invention is advantageous as it provides a renewable and natural sprout removal agent. It allows the removal of sprouts from tubers destined for the fresh produce market, where practically no pesticide residues are allowed.

1 . A composition when used for sprout removal of a sprout-bearing tuber and suitable for application by fogging, comprising at least 50 wt % limonene, 5-40 wt % of a fatty alcohol ethoxylate, and 5-25 wt % of an alkylbenzoate sulfonate, all based on the total weight of the composition,
 wherein the composition is in the form of an emulsifiable concentrate (EC) comprising between 500 and 900 g/l limonene.   
     
     
         2 . The composition when used according to  claim 1 , comprising 600-650 g/l limonene and 240-260 g/l of said fatty alcohol ethoxylate. 
     
     
         3 . The composition when used according to  claim 1 , comprising less than 10 wt % solvent. 
     
     
         4 . The composition when used according to  claim 2 , comprising less than 10 wt % solvent.