Phytochemicals are important natural bioactive compounds of fruit and vegetables and are widely recognised
for their nutraceutical effects and health benefits. This review analyses different factors influencing the level
of phytochemicals in selected fruit and vegetables at different processing stages in the production chain. The
level of phytochemicals present in fruit and vegetables may vary within and across cultivars. Available literature
correlates the level of phytochemicals with many factors including cultivar type, environmental and agronomic
conditions, harvest and food processing operations, and storage factors. The optimisation of food
processing and storage factors is an essential step to reduce the degradation of phytochemicals for potential
health benefits. Cultivar selection and maturity at harvest may be critical for food processors to maintain high
levels of phytochemicals in fruit and vegetables.