Deciphering the Plasticizers for the Development of Polysaccharide based Biodegradable Edible Coatings

Abstract

Abstract: There is persistently a high demand for fresh fruits and vegetables all over the world. One of the crucial factors that reduces the shelf life of fruits and vegetables is temperature- dependent oxidation during transportation and long storage. Fruits and vegetables coating using eco-friendly coatings hold great advantage over the other synthetic coating materials. The fruits and vegetables coated with coating can prevent from rapid oxidation even at warm temperatures. It enhances the quality and shelf life and maintain the nutritional properties. Though, edible coatings prove to be beneficial, the major drawbacks associated with it is the vulnerability towards moisture- dependent rapid degradation of these fruits and vegetables. Use of appropriate plasticizers would be helpful in enhancing the moisture and oxidation resistance. The current review article will highlight the use of various plasticizers used with polysaccharide-based coatings.