logo
Study the effect of polymeric biofilms prepared with chitosan/PLGA nanoparticles included limonen essential oil for increasing shelf life of strawberry

Strawberry is a non climacteric fruit and due to the high respiration rate, extreme water content (about 91%), excessive metabolic activity, prompt microbial spoilage and post harvest changes such as softening, its shelf life is short and is one of the most corruptible horticultural products. Since strawberry is produced in commercial levels in Iran, reduce waste and increase the storage life of strawberries from economical, technical and administrative view is of great magnitude. With the increasing development of nanotechnology in agriculture and introducing antimicrobial nano particles and novel packaging, there is new expectation for reducing the waste of this vulnerable and valuable product.  In this research work, nanoparticles of chitosan –PLGA and limonene essential oil which have an antimicrobial and antifungal properties (original flora of strawberry) were prepared and properties of polymer composition, limonene release, size and characteristics of nanoparticles and structural features were studied and optimized. Physical and chemical properties of polymer films include the ability to stretch and water permeability were evaluated. Antimicrobial properties of polymers were investigated using diffusion plate. Nanoparticles were used in packaging based on polyethylene to increase the shelf life of strawberries. During the storage time (for 14 days) color, weight loss, total soluble solids, sensory properties and anthocyanin content of packaged strawberries were studied. The results showed that covering strawberry fruit with biofilm film made from the polymer nanoparticles chitosan –PLGA and limonene essential oil, had increased shelf life, and had a significant positive effect on other qualitative criteria such as product color, sensory and textural characteristics, less weight loss and more anthocyanins compared with control samples. According to the results of this study, it is possible to introduce polymer film containing nanoparticles as a safe and efficient method for increase shelf life and maintain quality and health benefits of strawberries.


© All Right Reserved tabrizPowered By DOTECH