Storage study of grapes (Vitis vinifera) using the nanocomposite biodegradable film from banana pseudostem

Abstract

There is an increase in ecofriendly and biodegradable material as a replacer of plastic. The objective of the study is to focus on the application of packaging material derived from the banana pseudostem and its effect on the storage of black grapes. Cellulose was preliminary extracted from banana pseudostem and further, more nanocellulose was used as a reinforcing agent to develop two different types of nanofilms. Characterization of the film has been performed and it was used as a primary packaging material to enhance the shelf life of the grapes up to 12 days at different temperatures. It was found that nanocellulose with polyvinyl alcohol (NP) (5%) film was most effective to increases shelf life up to 12 days at 4°C. After 12th days of storage final weight loss (67.67), pH (4.02), soluble solid content (17.01), hardness (8.14), and titratable acidity (0.99) were observed for the packaged grapes without any microbial load. Practical applications Banana pseudostem have a large amount of cellulose that can be used as a biodegradable packaging material. Cellulose is a renewable source. Banana pseudostem is the primary waste and non-edible part of the Banana plant causes environmental pollution. Especially, culinary banana pseudostem is not used as edible vegetable due to the bitterness. The packaging industry can get a renewable source and replaces the non-renewable source. Very few researches have been performed on the application and storage of fruits especially on Musa ABB. Largely available in Northeast India.