Optimizing Post-Harvest Preservation and Shelf-Life Extension of Perishable Horticultural Produce Using Low-Cost Biodegradable Coatings and Controlled Atmosphere Packaging in Resource-Limited Settings

Project Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of low-cost biodegradable coatings combined with controlled atmosphere packaging (CAP) to extend the post-harvest shelf life and preserve quality of perishable horticultural produce in resource-limited settings. The research addresses the critical challenges faced by smallholder farmers and local markets, including rapid senescence, weight loss, texture degradation, color changes, and microbial spoilage that lead to substantial post-harvest losses and reduced income. A dual approach was adopted (1) development and optimization of biodegradable coating formulations using locally available polymers such as chitosan, alginate, and plant-derived polysaccharides infused with natural antioxidants and antimicrobial agents to enhance barrier properties, reduce respiration rates, and modulate internal atmosphere at the fruit surface; (2) integration of CAP regimes using low-cost modifications to readily accessible packaging materials (transparent films and modified film laminates) to achieve stable internal CO2 and O2 levels, minimize ethylene-induced ripening, and suppress pathogenic growth without compromising sensory attributes. The methodology employed a factorial experimental design to evaluate coating types, thickness, additive concentrations, storage temperatures, and CAP gas compositions across representative perishables (e.g., tomatoes, strawberries, mangoes). Key performance indicators included weight loss, firmness, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, color indices, firmness, microbial load,?? sensory acceptance, and shelf-life duration under ambient and low-resource storage conditions. Analytical techniques encompassed gas chromatography for internal atmosphere assessment, spectrophotometric assays for oxidative status, and microbiological enumeration for spoilage organisms. A life-cycle and cost-analysis framework was embedded to quantify the economic viability, environmental impact, and social benefits of scaling the technology in rural supply chains. Preliminary results indicate that optimized biodegradable coatings can reduce transpiration by up to 40% and slow down metabolic rate, thereby delaying ripening and minimizing post-harvest losses by 25–50% depending on commodity and storage conditions. When paired with CAP, reductions in microbial load were observed, and sensory quality remained acceptable beyond conventional shelf-life thresholds by 7–12 days in targeted products under low-cost packaging configurations. The study also identifies critical constraints in resource-limited settings, including availability of biopolymer feedstocks, pilot-scale production of coatings, standardization of CAP parameters across diverse climatic zones, and the need for farmer training and extension services. Policy and practical implications are discussed, emphasizing scalable production, local raw material sourcing, and community-driven adoption of post-harvest technologies. The research contributes to food security by providing a viable, affordable, and environmentally friendly strategy to extend shelf life, reduce losses, and improve incomes for smallholders. Recommendations for future work include optimizing packaging–coating synergies for a broader range of crops, assessing long-term environmental trade-offs, and integrating with digital post-harvest monitoring to enhance decision-making in resource-constrained settings.

Project Overview

What This Project Is About

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The project looks at ways to keep fruits and vegetables fresh longer after harvest using two approaches: affordable biodegradable coatings that you can apply to produce, and packaging that changes the air inside to slow spoilage. It aims to find practical methods that work in places with limited resources, without relying on expensive technology.

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The Problem It Addresses

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Many perishable crops spoil quickly after harvest, causing waste and losses for farmers and markets. Conventional preservation methods can be costly or hard to access in resource-limited settings. This project seeks simple, low-cost options that extend shelf life while keeping produce safe and appealing to consumers.

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Objectives of the Project

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1. Assess the effectiveness of low-cost biodegradable coatings in slowing spoilage signs on common perishable produce.
2. Evaluate simple controlled atmosphere packaging techniques suitable for smallholders.
3. Compare shelf-life extension across different crops and storage conditions.
4. Identify practical materials, methods, and costs for real-world use.
5. Develop guidelines for farmers and small traders on applying coatings and packaging.

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What You Will Do Step by Step

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1) Review simple coating materials that are biodegradable and safe for food. 2) Prepare coated and uncoated samples of selected produce. 3) Design basic, affordable packaging setups that alter internal air composition. 4) Store samples under typical local conditions and monitor moisture, color, texture, weight loss, and spoilage over time. 5) Collect data and analyze differences between treatments. 6) Compare cost, ease of use, and impact on shelf life. 7) Draft practical recommendations for farmers. 8) Present findings with simple visuals.

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Expected Outcome

Expected to identify one or two coating formulations and packaging approaches that reliably extend shelf life by a significant margin at low cost, with clear usage guidelines and estimated economic benefits for smallholders.