Project Abstract

Abstract
This research project focuses on investigating the application of edible coatings to prolong the shelf life of fresh produce within food retail environments. The perishability of fresh fruits and vegetables poses a significant challenge for food retailers, leading to substantial food waste and economic losses. Edible coatings, composed of natural materials such as proteins, lipids, and polysaccharides, offer a promising solution to extend the shelf life of fresh produce by creating a protective barrier against various deteriorative processes. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of different types of edible coatings in preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of various fresh produce items commonly found in food retail settings. Through a comprehensive literature review, the research will explore the existing knowledge on the use of edible coatings in the food industry and their impact on food preservation. This will provide a foundation for understanding the mechanisms by which edible coatings interact with fresh produce to delay spoilage and maintain freshness. The research methodology encompasses experimental studies conducted in controlled laboratory conditions to assess the impact of edible coatings on the shelf life of selected fresh produce items. Various parameters, including microbial growth, moisture retention, color changes, and sensory attributes, will be monitored over time to determine the effectiveness of different edible coatings in extending the shelf life of fresh produce. The findings of this research aim to provide valuable insights into the practical application of edible coatings for food retailers seeking sustainable solutions to reduce food waste and improve product quality. By identifying the most suitable edible coatings for specific types of fresh produce, retailers can implement targeted strategies to enhance the shelf life of their products and meet consumer demands for high-quality, fresh produce. In conclusion, this research project contributes to the ongoing efforts to address food waste and sustainability challenges within the food retail sector by exploring the potential of edible coatings as a viable solution for extending the shelf life of fresh produce. The results obtained from this study will not only advance scientific knowledge in the field of food science and technology but also offer practical recommendations for food retailers to optimize their operations and minimize waste while ensuring product quality and consumer satisfaction.

Project Overview

The research project titled "Investigation of the use of edible coatings for extending the shelf life of fresh produce in food retail environments" aims to explore and evaluate the effectiveness of edible coatings in prolonging the shelf life of fresh produce in food retail settings. Fresh produce, such as fruits and vegetables, are highly perishable items that are susceptible to spoilage due to microbial growth, physical damage, and environmental factors. This study seeks to address this issue by investigating the application of edible coatings as a potential solution to extend the shelf life of fresh produce and reduce food waste in retail environments. The project will begin with a comprehensive review of existing literature on edible coatings, fresh produce preservation techniques, and the challenges associated with maintaining the quality and safety of perishable food items in retail settings. This review will provide a theoretical framework and background information to support the research objectives. The research will then focus on identifying the specific problem areas related to the current shelf life of fresh produce in food retail environments. Factors such as post-harvest losses, storage conditions, transportation methods, and consumer preferences will be analyzed to determine the key issues that contribute to the short shelf life of fresh produce. The primary objective of the study is to assess the efficacy of various types of edible coatings in extending the shelf life of fresh produce. Different types of edible coatings, such as lipid-based coatings, protein-based coatings, and polysaccharide-based coatings, will be evaluated for their ability to reduce moisture loss, inhibit microbial growth, and maintain the overall quality of fresh produce during storage and transportation. The research methodology will involve conducting experiments to test the effectiveness of different edible coatings on various types of fresh produce. Parameters such as shelf life extension, sensory attributes, microbial growth inhibition, and nutritional quality will be analyzed to determine the impact of edible coatings on the overall quality and safety of fresh produce. The findings of the study will be discussed in detail to provide insights into the potential benefits and limitations of using edible coatings for extending the shelf life of fresh produce in food retail environments. Practical recommendations and guidelines for implementing edible coatings in commercial settings will also be provided to assist food retailers in improving the quality and shelf life of their fresh produce offerings. In conclusion, this research project aims to contribute valuable knowledge to the field of food science and technology by investigating the use of edible coatings as a sustainable and cost-effective method for extending the shelf life of fresh produce in food retail environments. By addressing the challenges associated with perishable food items, this study seeks to promote food preservation practices that enhance food safety, reduce food waste, and meet the growing consumer demand for high-quality fresh produce.