The storage life of pepper fruit is limited by pathological
deterioration), rapid water loss during prolonged storage , and susceptibility to chilling injury. The most common decay microorganisms are Botrytis, Alternaria, and soft rots of fungal and bacterial
origin. Botrytis can grow even at the recommended pepper storage temperatures. High levels of CO2 can control
Botrytis, but it may damages peppers. The presence of Alternaria black rot on the stem end is a symptom of chilling
injury. Bacterial soft rot is caused by several bacteria which attack damaged tissue. Soft rots can occur on washed or
hydro-cooled peppers, where water sanitation was inadequate.