Using Nanotechnology for Enhancing the Shelf Life of Fruits
Ravi Kondle, Kushagra Sharma, Gurpreet Singh, Amit Kotiyal
Abstract
Edible coatings are thin layers of edible materials formed directly on fruits, usually by immersing the fruits in a coating material solution, and they are one of the most intriguing food developments in recent years. Colorants, flavours, nutrients, and anti-browning and antimicrobial agents can all be carried by edible coatings, extending shelf life and reducing pathogen growth on food surfaces. To manage moisture transfer, gas exchange, or oxidative processes, edible coatings can be applied using various procedures such as dipping, spraying, or coating. Because these systems have a larger surface area, nanoparticles may help to improve the barrier characteristics and functionality of fruit preservation coatings. Antimicrobial nanoparticles (NPs) are employed as matrixes in edible coatings and films (ECF), which are then applied to fruits to extend shelf life and improve storage quality. Nano Chitosan is one of the most prevalent polysaccharides, protein, and lipid-based edible coatings. These are characterised by poor gas and water barrier qualities, and they are frequently used as moisture loss sacrifice agents. Therefore, the purpose of this book chapter is to study the effect of nano edible coatings such as chitosan/tripolyphosphate (TPP), chitosan-methyl cellulose/silica (SiO2), gelatin-fiber/titanium dioxide (TiO2), gelatin-chitosan/ (Ag/ZnO), Gelatin/kafirin to quality attributes and prolonging the shelf life of fruits.