Edible bio-nanocomposite coatings: a modern and strategic new approach to increasing the shelf life of fresh-cut fruits

In recent decades, there has been significant progress in the production and utilization of synthetic filmsmade from plastic and petroleum derivatives for packaging. However, alongside their benefits, thesematerials pose environmental challenges. Fruits and vegetables, valued for their nutritional content, facepreservation challenges in maintaining their quality without chemical alterations. To address this, researchhas turned to biopolymer materials for packaging and preservation. These materials offer advantages suchas easy biodegradability and safety for consumption by humans and animals.Polymer nanocomposites, with properties like antibacterial effects, moisture and gas barriers, andmechanical strength, have emerged as promising solutions for food and agricultural packaging needsThis review focuses on the research conducted on the effectiveness of biopolymer-based nanocompositefilms and coatings for packaging whole and cut fruits and vegetables to extend their shelf life. Several studieshave highlighted the efficacy of biopolymer-based nanocomposites in prolonging the shelf life of packagedand/or coated whole and cut fruits and vegetables by at least ۴ to ۵ days, and in some cases, up to severalmonths.

Keywords:

Edible coatings , Nanocomposite , Biodegradable Polymers , Fruit , Vegetables