Edible coating materials to improve shelf life of fruit crops
Fruits are one of the most important horticulture commodities worldwide due to its organoleptic and nutritional properties. In India, the diversity of agro climatic zones ensures availability of all varieties of fresh fruits & vegetables. The country ranks second in fruits production in the world after China. As per National Horticulture Database published by National Horticulture Board, India produced about 300 million metric tonnes of fruits and vegetables during 2016-17.
However, fruits are a highly perishable commodity as they contain 80-90% water by weight. The water quickly begins to evaporate, if fruits are left without cuticle, resulting in poor product shelf life. Absence of postharvest treatment, non-availability of modern systems for on-farm storage, infestation of micro...