Author: Yamkela Silwanyana, Vuyokazi Mazwi, Gugulethu Miya, Ayodeji Oluwabunmi Oriola, Yiseyon Sunday Hosu, Adebola Omowunmi Oyedeji, Opeoluwa Oyehan Oyedeji, Simon Kamande Kuria
Citation: Silwanyana, Yamkela, et al. "Effectiveness of citrus essential oils as a biopesticide against stored food product pests: A review." Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants (2025): 1-17.
Abstract:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0972060X.2025.2458047
Insect pests pose significant threats to stored food products, leading to substantial economic losses and compromising food safety and security. Using synthetic pesticides to manage these pests raises serious concerns regarding environmental degradation and human health risks. Conversely, essential oils derived from citrus species have emerged as promising alternatives for pest management in stored food items, demonstrating effectiveness while offering safety and environmental benefits. These bio-sourced oils are biodegradable and exhibit minimal toxicity to humans and beneficial organisms. However, challenges remain, including the variability in pest control efficacy, sustainability of the sourcing of these essential oils, and potential ecological consequences associated with their use. Despite these limitations, citrus essential oils (CEOs) present a viable, natural, and sustainable strategy for controlling storage pests, enhancing food security and promoting environmental conservation. To maximise the potential of CEOs in pest management, further research is essential. This includes optimising application methodologies, investigating alternative modes of action, and developing innovative delivery systems that enhance both efficacy and sustainability. An extensive literature review on the insecticidal properties of citrus essential oils was conducted using electronic databases such as Scopus, EBSCOhost, and ScienceDirect, focusing on their effectiveness against pests associated with stored food products.
Author: Yamkela Silwanyana, Vuyokazi Mazwi, Gugulethu Miya, Ayodeji Oluwabunmi Oriola, Yiseyon Sunday Hosu, Adebola Omowunmi Oyedeji, Opeoluwa Oyehan Oyedeji, Simon Kamande Kuria
Citation: Silwanyana, Yamkela, et al. "Effectiveness of citrus essential oils as a biopesticide against stored food product pests: A review." Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants (2025): 1-17.
Abstract:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0972060X.2025.2458047
Insect pests pose significant threats to stored food products, leading to substantial economic losses and compromising food safety and security. Using synthetic pesticides to manage these pests raises serious concerns regarding environmental degradation and human health risks. Conversely, essential oils derived from citrus species have emerged as promising alternatives for pest management in stored food items, demonstrating effectiveness while offering safety and environmental benefits. These bio-sourced oils are biodegradable and exhibit minimal toxicity to humans and beneficial organisms. However, challenges remain, including the variability in pest control efficacy, sustainability of the sourcing of these essential oils, and potential ecological consequences associated with their use. Despite these limitations, citrus essential oils (CEOs) present a viable, natural, and sustainable strategy for controlling storage pests, enhancing food security and promoting environmental conservation. To maximise the potential of CEOs in pest management, further research is essential. This includes optimising application methodologies, investigating alternative modes of action, and developing innovative delivery systems that enhance both efficacy and sustainability. An extensive literature review on the insecticidal properties of citrus essential oils was conducted using electronic databases such as Scopus, EBSCOhost, and ScienceDirect, focusing on their effectiveness against pests associated with stored food products.