Burdock fructooligosaccharide induces fungal resistance in postharvest Kyoho grapes by activating the salicylic acid-dependent pathway and inhibiting browning

► Common postharvest disease in seven kinds of fruits can be controlled by burdock fructooligosaccharide (BFO). ► A 29 percent AUDPC decrease of Botrytis cinerea in Kyoho grape has been observed. ► Salicylic acid-dependent signalling pathway and systemic acquired resistance have been activated by BFO in Kyoho grape. ► BFO delayed grape browning by delaying peroxidase and polyphenoloxidase activity in Kyoho grape skin. ► BFO restrained respiration rate, weight loss, and titratable acidity in Kyoho grape.