A Bibliometric Analysis of Postharvest Sprout Inhibition using VOSviewer

Abstract

Postharvest sprouting significantly reduces the quality and shelf life of crops. The increasing restrictions on synthetic sprout inhibition, notably chlorpropham (CIPC), have driven global interest in natural bioactive compounds as safer and eco-friendly alternatives. The study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of postharvest sprout inhibition using VOSviewer. Data were retrieved from the Scopus database for the period 1945–2026 using keywords related to postharvest sprouting, sprouting control, sprout inhibition, sprout suppressant, sprout suppression, or sprout suppressive, restricted to English-language articles and conference papers. Bibliometric indicators were analysed using VOSviewer software to identify annual publication trends, prolific authors, countries, and journals, as well as to map keyword networks and scientific collaborations. The analysis highlighted research trajectories, uncovered existing gaps, and provided recommendations for future studies in the field. Analysis of 293 publications reveals a rising annual trend in scientific output and citations that peaked in 2024, identifying Terry, USA, and Status of Food Irradiation in the World journal as the most influential contributors. Furthermore, keyword analysis show that 'sprout inhibition,' 'potato,' and 'storage' form the core research clusters, with 'chlorpropham' serving as a central link between dormancy management and postharvest quality. Future research should explore emerging areas such as organic agriculture, biological control, and plant extracts, particularly essential oils and bioactive compounds such as carvone as sustainable alternatives to synthetic sprout suppressants, addressing current gaps in eco-friendly post-harvest technologies.