Edible Coatings: Classification, applications and innovations in food preservation

The health of every individual heavily depends on the consumption of fruits. Although fruits are exceptionally healthy, their perishable characteristics pose difficulties for prolonged storage. Ineffective post-harvest techniques can impede the supply chain, leading to considerable losses for producers. Therefore, there is an urgent need to reduce post-harvest losses to enhance agricultural productivity. Conventional post-harvest treatments involving synthetic chemicals are increasingly being recognized for their potential negative impacts on human health. In response, the use of bio-based edible coatings derived from plant materials is gaining significant attention and encouragement. Edible coatings effectively extend the shelf life of fruits by controlling oxidation, moisture loss, and gas exchange. Coatings enriched with bioactive materials create an additional protective layer that slows down respiration rates, thereby prolonging the freshness of the fruits. This review provides an abridged overview of edible coatings, discussing their applications and classifications, and concludes by emphasizing chitosan as one of the most effective compounds. Additionally, the review explores innovative materials and nanotechnology-based edible coatings, along with their application techniques for various fruits. These advancements aim to address supply chain challenges and enhance food security.