Potassium sorbate‐enriched chitosan coatings enhance antioxidant stability and preserve postharvest quality of lemons (<i>Citrus limon</i>)
Nikhil, S. K. Jawandha, P. P. S. Gill, K. L. Bajaj, Diksha Dhiman, Harminder Singh, Arashdeep Singh
Abstract
Abstract BACKGROUND Lemons are widely recognized for their culinary and nutritional value, but their high moisture content and delicate skin make them prone to postharvest quality loss and reduced antioxidant properties. This work explores the application of chitosan (CH) coatings enriched with potassium sorbate (PS) to preserve the quality and antioxidant system of lemons. RESULTS The prepared coatings were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and rheology. FTIR spectra confirmed the successful incorporation of sorbate into the chitosan matrix, indicating the potential for antimicrobial activity. Rheological measurements revealed the viscoelastic properties of the coatings, essential for their applicability as protective layers on fruits. The results demonstrated that the composite coating significantly enhanced the activity of enzymes catalase, peroxidase and superoxide dismutase by the end of storage. Additionally, the composite‐treated lemons exhibited better retention of total soluble solids (7.01%), acidity (5.14%), ascorbic acid (457 mg L −1 ) and antioxidant activity (34.56%) by the end of storage, indicating improved nutritional stability. The CH 2.0% + PS 1.0% smeared fruits showed reduced weight loss and decay rate. CONCLUSION The results suggest that application of CH and PS composite coatings could serve as an efficient method for maintaining the postharvest quality of lemon fruits stored for 60 days at 90–95% relative humidity and 6–8 °C. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.