Effect of fenugreek and flaxseed polysaccharide-based edible coatings on the quality attributes and shelf life of apple fruit during storage

The present study was designed to explore the potential of fenugreek and flaxseed polysaccharide-based edible coatings to enhance the postharvest storage life of apple fruit. The experimental plan involved the preparation of five different coating formulations, which were subsequently applied to the fruit. The coated fruit was then stored at a temperature of 25 +/- 2 degrees C for a duration of 35 days. The effects of these coatings on physicochemical and biochemical attributes (weight loss, firmness, acidity, pH, sugar content, antioxidant activity, microbial growth, and sensory properties) of coated and uncoated samples were evaluated at regular intervals: 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days of storage. The experimental results revealed a significant difference (p <= .05) in the physicochemical parameters of uncoated and coated apple at different storage times. The coated apple fruits showed significantly (p <= .05) lower weight loss, pH, total sugars, total soluble solids, and maximum retention of ascorbic acid, firmness, acidity, and antioxidant contents, leading to enhanced organoleptic properties. The application of edible coatings extended the shelf-life of the apples by inhibiting microbiological spoilage without substantial impact on sensory and nutritional properties. Based on these results, it is concluded that the edible coating formulation labeled T1 (containing 2.5 g fenugreek polysaccharide and 1.5 g flax polysaccharide) effectively preserved the valuable physicochemical and organoleptic characteristics of the apple fruit throughout the storage period. This research was aimed at determining if edible coatings based on flaxseed and fenugreek polysaccharides may extend the shelf life of apples after harvest. Without significantly altering the apples' sensory and nutritional qualities, the application of edible coatings increased their shelf life by preventing microbial deterioration. The apple's valuable physicochemical and organoleptic features were effectively retained throughout the storage period by the edible coating formulation that contained 2.5 g of fenugreek polysaccharide and 1.5 g of flax polysaccharide content.image