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Self-layered fruit preservation coating based on chitosan and curcumin.
Han Li1, Lijun Qian2, Quanling Zhao2
1School of Forestry, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China; State Key Laboratory of Featured Metal Materials and Life-cycle Safety for Composite Structures, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China; Plant Protection Research Center, Tobacco Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, 266101, China.
A novel fruit coating using aldehyde starch-curcumin-gelatin composite particles (ASCG) and chitosan provides effective, non-toxic preservation. This food-safe coating maintains fruit quality and nutritional content during long-term storage.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Materials Science
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- Long-term fruit storage necessitates effective preservatives to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness.
- Food safety regulations require preservatives to adhere stably to fruit surfaces without skin penetration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel coating preservation solution (FS) for extending fruit shelf life.
- To evaluate the adhesion, permeability, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of the developed coating.
Main Methods:
- Formulation of a coating preservation solution (FS) using aldehyde starch-curcumin-gelatin composite particles (ASCG) and chitosan.
- Application of the FS coating on fruits like cherry tomatoes and apples.
- Assessment of coating adhesion, permeability, antioxidant/antimicrobial efficacy, weight retention, and nutritional content over 30 days.
Main Results:
- The FS coating formed a stable 1 μm layer with high adhesion (83.83 mN/m) and low permeability (-13.25 mN/m spreading coefficient).
- The coating maintained 95% of its antioxidant and antimicrobial efficacy after 30 days of indoor storage.
- Significant maintenance of fruit weight and nutritional content was observed during storage.
Conclusions:
- The developed FS coating, comprising ASCG and chitosan, offers a promising non-toxic preservative solution for fruits.
- The coating's properties ensure food safety and enhance the quality and shelf life of stored fruits.
- This technology has potential as a novel, efficient, and safe method for fruit preservation.
