Active Edible Coatings

 

Approximately 30% (70% in developing countries) of global agri-food produce is lost after harvest. ​Finding safe green and commercially viable methods for reducing food losses is a substantial global goal. 

 

We developed a series of active coatings based on natural nutritional fibers that may help to achieve this important aim. Our edible coatings improve the quality and microbial safety (up to 6 log reduction in total microbial count) of fresh agricultural products, leading to a significant increase in their storability (240% for bell peppers, up to 350% for mango and avocado, and 400% for citrus) and provide a sustainable alternative to individual plastic packages. Significant storage prolongations allow sea export of fresh agricultural products to distant markets at reasonable prices.

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Here are a few examples of our projects: ​​(a) bioactive coatings that contain probiotic microorganisms for protecting perishable produce and stimulating the immunity of fruits against biotic and abiotic stresses.  (b) active edible coatings based on valorized agricultural waste.​(d) pre-harvest coatings with elicitation capabilities to promote protection mechanisms and increase nutraceutical compounds in agriproducts.

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