Bioinspired chitosan coatings enhanced with bacterial cellulose nanocrystals and apple polyphenols for preservation of perishable fruits.

Abstract

This study presents a multifunctional chitosan-based composite coating integrating bacterial cellulose nanocrystals (BCNC-I, derived via sulfuric acid hydrolysis) and apple pomace polyphenols (AP) to prolong perishable fruit shelf life. The optimal formulation (4 % BCNC-I + 0.25 % AP) exhibited enhanced mechanical strength (61.5 % increase) and barrier performance (45.7 % reduction in water vapor permeability) compared to pure chitosan, alongside robust antioxidant efficacy (71.7 % DPPH and 78.4 % ABTS radical inhibition). When applied to fig (Ficus carica L.) fruits, the coating significantly suppressed respiration rate (50.1 % reduction) and weight loss (47.9 % decrease) during 15-day storage (4 °C, 85 %RH), while preserving firmness, titratable acidity, total phenolics, and total flavonoids at levels comparable to freshly harvested fruit. The complementary roles of BCNC-I-providing structural reinforcement and AP-contributing antioxidant activity collectively establish a sustainable, dual-functional coating system that helps reduce dependence on synthetic packaging. This study highlights the potential of biopolymer-based composites in tackling postharvest losses and advancing eco-conscious food preservation strategies.