Post-Harvest Shelf Life Extension of Mango Using Chitosan and Carboxymethyl Cellulose-Based Coatings

Abstract

Biopolymer-based coatings or films can be used as an alternative to the replacement of conventional packaging, to preserve fresh fruit quality and extend their shelf life. This study aimed to prepare and characterize biopolymeric coating films based on chitosan and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). Film coating of biopolymers was further applied on mango fruits, and the efficacy of coating materials in post-harvest shelf life and maintaining quality parameters of mango were then determined. The coating method of the films over mango was prepared using a dipping technique. Fruit weight loss, colors and content of total soluble solids were evaluated to assess fruit quality during 14 days at 25 °C of storage. Results indicated that films formulated with CMC showed significantly higher water solubility and water vapor transmission rate. Notably, coating improved the quality of mango during storage. Between the coating types, CMC was found to be significantly more effective in maintaining fruit fresh weight during the storage period. The fruit treated with CMC lowered the change in color and had higher soluble solids content than that of chitosan coating on the fourteenth day of storage. These results demonstrate that CMC-based coating could be utilized for the extension of the fruit commercialization period.