Advances in molecular, biochemical mechanisms and innovative technologies for browning regulation and quality preservation of fresh-cut lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) rhizome.

Fresh-cut lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) rhizome (FCLR) is highly susceptible to enzymatic browning and non-enzymatic blue/black staining following mechanical wounding, limiting its commercial shelf-life to 3-5 d under refrigeration. Despite extensive empirical research on preservation strategies, a systematic synthesis integrating molecular wounding mechanisms with the design principles of emerging technologies remains lacking. This review critically examines recent progress in browning control and quality preservation of FCLR, dissecting physiological wound responses including reactive oxygen species metabolism, lipid peroxidation, and transcriptional networks governing phenolic metabolism, while clearly differentiating enzymatic browning from iron-polyphenol-mediated non-enzymatic discoloration. Three innovative technology clusters are critically evaluated: chemical signaling (phytohormones, gasotransmitters), physical treatments (UV-C, high pressure, thermosonication), and advanced coatings with packaging systems (natural polymers, MOF-based technologies), along with the low-oxygen paradox of vacuum packaging that fosters microbial gas production and off-flavors. The field is shifting from traditional enzyme inhibition toward stabilizing subcellular membranes and modulating wound microenvironments. Melatonin emerges as a versatile multi-target modulator, while sequential hurdle strategies combined with responsive intelligent packaging show substantial promise. Persistent challenges include cultivar-specific dose optimization, scaling up advanced physical technologies, and ensuring batch-to-batch consistency of natural coatings. Wound-induced starch-polyphenol interactions remain inadequately characterized despite their textural implications. Advancing FCLR preservation requires clarifying coating-tissue interaction mechanisms, optimizing predictive parameters, and rigorous commercial validation to bridge molecular insights with mechanism-driven strategies for extended shelf-life and enhanced commercial value.