Improvement of the physical-chemical, microbiological, volatiles and sensory quality of strawberries covered with chitosan/gelatin/pomegranate peel extract-based coatings.

This study investigated the effects of chitosan/gelatin (CG) coatings containing pomegranate peel extract (PPE) on the physical-chemical, microbiological, volatile profile, and sensory characteristics of strawberries over 12 days of refrigerated storage. The coatings containing PPE minimized the weight loss of the fruits by 11 % and delayed their fungal contamination by 6-8 days. Uncoated fruits showed soluble solids content, pH, and titratable acidity values characteristics of highly deteriorated fruits. The coatings preserved the color, firmness, respiratory quotient, and bioactive compounds contents of the fruits. Uncoated strawberries showed a 39.4 % reduction in total volatile compounds, approximately 6 times greater than coated fruits. The severity of injuries caused by fungi was slowed down by the coatings. The sensory quality of the fruits was not affected, and the coatings cost was estimated at approximately $ 0.03/fruit, confirming that the materials developed can be used as natural coatings and a cheap alternative for strawberries preservation.