Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: In our study, we focused on developing emulsion-coated active papers with antifungal activity to be used at a business-to-business (B2B) level throughout the tomato value chain, from the main distributor to retailers, to extend the postharvest storage life of tomatoes. An essential oils mixture (EOmix), selected based on a mixture design, was emulsified with cationic starches and coated onto the paper. The active paper´s performance in the vapour phase was evaluated in vitro against Botrytis cinerea, and invivo with fresh tomatoes. Additionally, active paper´s stability was evaluated over time at storage temperature (4ºC). The EOmix composed by 33.3% oregano EO and 66.7% cinnamon leaf EO yielded the highest antifungal effect and was selected for the development of the active papers. Two final emulsions were used for paper coating, based on their stability and antifungal properties, composed by 10% Tween 80, different concentrations of EOmix (6-8%) and two cationic starches (82% HI-CAT and 84% EVO). Both active papers showed high anti-B. cinerea activity, which was maintained up to 31 days at storage temperature. The evaluation of postharvest cold storage and shelf life of tomatoes showed that active papers enhanced fruit appearance and increased storage and shelf life by diminishing mould growth, while maintained overall sensory acceptance (tomatoes stored with active papers vs. control tomatoes). In sum, the emulsion-coated active papers are promising materials for reducing tomato waste at B2B and consumer levels, due to their proven antifungal activity, low cost, biobased composition, and good performance in proof-of-concept assays.
Source: Foods
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,499
OpenAlex ID: W4413207577