Enhancing the shelf life of pomegranate by bio extract coatings

In countries like India proper handling and infrastructure for fresh fruits are lacking and accounts for 10-20% post-harvest losses. Thus growers are seeking simple and low-cost techniques to maintain fruit quality attributes. The use of various chemicals and waxing materials at post-harvest stages is gaining importance in order to enhance the shelf life of fruits as well as meeting their quality standards. Though, the application of these substances is believed to be unsafe, as they are prone to objectionable residue on the fruit surface, which may have a direct effect on human health. In order to overcome these shortcomings, this study was undertaken to substitute the ecologically and economically unsafe substances with substances of biological origin. The bio-extracts exhibiting growth regulating, fungicidal and insecticidal properties can be exploited for retaining freshness and enhancing the shelf life of horticultural crops as well as meeting their quality standards. Moreover, along with bio extract coatings, in the study modified atmosphere packaging also included for delaying post-harvest deterioration, and maintaining quality of pomegranate.