Películas basadas en polisacáridos como recubrimientos biodegradables y su empleo en la postcosecha de los frutos

Abstract

The postharvest preservation of fruits and vegetables is a vital issue due to the large losses generated during its handling in the domestic market and exportation. Microbiological and physiological deterioration, inadequate collection process, the use of inappropriate packaging and insufficient transportation routes are key factors for these losses. The use of biodegradable films and coatings is an alternative to decrease these losses. Biodegradable films and coatings are generally either composed of carbohydrates proteins and lipids individually or combined. These coatings constitute a semipermeable barrier to water vapor, oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) between fruits and the surrounding environment. In general, they can slow down the senescence process and microbial growth on the surface of the fruits, which allows quality preservation and facilitates their distribution and commercialization. Due to the potential and importance that this type of technology currently presents in our national context, this review was carried out taking into account the main components used in the formation of these materials, the practical application in fruits and vegetables, and the principal characterization procedures of these biodegradable films and coatings.