Shelf Life Research Articles

Enhancing green chili growth using eggshell waste as a carrier for NPK biofertilizer consortium in soil

Biofertilizer technology continues to be derailed by the short shelf life of inoculants. The survival efficiency of rhizobacterial inoculants in biofertilizer formulations dramatically depends on the choice of carrier material. The use of wastes as carriers for biofertilizer formulations is a commonly explored option because of their ready availability, cost-effectiveness and ability to affect soil health. The present study investigated the suitability of eggshell (ES) as a carrier for cow dung waste (CDC) and lignite (L) in the combined formulation of green chili plant growth using three rhizobacterial inoculants, namely, the N-fixing bacterium Enterobacter sp. GG1, the P-solubilizing bacterium Bacillus sonorensis GG2, and the K-solubilizing bacterium Lysinibacillus fusiformis GG3, under room-temperature conditions. The combination of eggshell and lignite supported the maximum viability of Enterobacter sp. GG1 (9.09±0.025 log CFU g-1), B. sonorensis GG2 (9.19±0.023025 log CFU g-1), and L. fusiformis GG3 (9.09±0.042025 log CFU g-1) under six-month room conditions. A new physiochemically formulated eggshell with an NPK consortium exhibited a significant correlation at the 0.05 significance level (2-tailed). Considering the results of this study on the optimization of green chili plants after two months of treatment under environmental conditions, the maximum growth of plants inoculated with the NPK consortium (ES+L) was 159.16% shoot and 40.58% root growth, with increased available plant nutrients in clayey soil (i.e., N 64.54±1.81 ppm, P 29.51±1.65 ppm, and K 73.95±6.43 ppm). The findings of this study highlight the potential of eggshell waste as a sustainable and effective carrier material for biofertilizer formulations, addressing waste management challenges to enhance rhizobacterial viability and improve nutrient availability in soil.

Effects of Hexanal Supplementation on Volatile Compound Profiles and Quality Parameters of ‘Fuji Kiku’ Apples During Cold Storage and Shelf Life

The effects of hexanal supplementation in the storage atmosphere of ‘Fuji Kiku’ apples were investigated. The contents of volatile compounds (VOCs) in the headspace emitted by apple fruit during cold storage and in the headspace of apple fruit and juice during shelf life were determined. Hexanal treatment during storage significantly affected the VOC profile by stimulating the production or retention of key esters, including hexyl acetate, ethyl acetate, and butyl 2-methylbutanoate, during cold storage. Supplementation of hexanal also increased the production of linear esters, especially hexyl acetate, and promoted the formation of branched esters such as ethyl 2-methylbutanoate and hexyl 2-methylbutanoate during shelf life. Hexanal also increased the alcohol concentrations, with a significant increase in hexanol and 2-pentanol. Partial least squares discriminant analysis showed clear separation between control and hexanal-treated samples, with compounds like butyl hexanoate and 2-methyl-1-butanol being the most influential. Apple juice extracted from the flesh of hexanal-treated apples exhibited higher concentrations of key VOCs, including 2-methylbutyl acetate, hexyl acetate, and 2-methyl-1-butanol. No significant differences in firmness were observed; however, hexanal showed an inhibitory effect on the colour development of fruit. This study highlights the potential of hexanal in influencing aroma-related compounds and provides insight into strategies to improve postharvest aroma in apples.

Production of Edible Coating For Preservation of Guava (Psidium guaiava L) FROM Raw Residue Derived From Processing of Cassava Flour (Manihot esculenta crantz)

Objective: The present work aimed to use crueira, waste from the processing of cassava flour, to develop an edible coating to be applied to guavas of the Paluma variety, for the purpose of post-harvest conservation. Theoretical Reference: The agricultural production of the Brazilian economy places the country in a prominent position on the international scene, at the same time as it is also a reference in supplying the domestic market with fresh products and their derivatives. However, given the perishable nature of products, much is lost throughout the entire production chain, and this volume is even increased when considering the generation of waste recommended for food processing. For example, you can mention the generation of waste from the production of cassava flour, which has underutilized areas and is generally disposed of improperly, causing environmental and social impacts. Method: Different formulations were tested using three variables: cassava raw (6%, 7% and 8%), glycerol (3%, 4% and 5%), immersion time (5 min, 10 min and 15 min) in six storage times (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 days). Our fruits were analyzed for mass loss, pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, reducing sugars and sensory analysis for color, general quality and incidence of rot. Results and Discussion: Microbiological analyses were performed on the coating that presented the best conditions for preserving the fruits to verify the incidence of Salmonella, Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli, and the microbiological results were within the requirements of current legislation. Under the conditions of the experiment, the coatings developed presented positive results for the preservation of guavas, delaying signs of ripening and increasing their shelf life, with emphasis on the coating composed of 6% cassava pulp and 3% glycerol, applied for 5 minutes, which presented better preservation characteristics for guavas in general. Implications of the Research: Contribute to the reduction of post-harvest loss of fruits and, consequently, impact on the supply of quality food for the population. Originality/Value: Reuse of waste generated in the production of cassava flour, an agro-industry of interest to several regions of the country, in the production of low-cost edible and natural coating, which directly impacts the preservation of fresh food, reducing waste, increasing the food supply, thus contributing to food security.

Bebidas do povo Umbundo (Angola): Quissângua e Quimbombo

Quissângua and Quimbombo are two traditional fermented beverages of the Umbundo people (Angola) obtained from corn: Quissângua, with only a lactic fermentation, Quimbombo, a beer with a lactic fermentation prior to alcoholic fermentation. Prepared exclusively by women, they are taken unfiltered, and have a very short shelf life. Most African countries produce their traditional beers from sorghum, taken unfiltered, and studies show considerable nutritional value. However, there is a tendency for consumers to prefer industrial, filtered and long-lasting beer, usually promoted by marketing campaigns. Faced with the risk of losing interest in traditional products, several countries want to reverse this trend and are researching new technologies to improve shelf life and food safety, without sacrificing traditional flavors. No similar studies have been identified on these drinks from umbundo people. The objective of this work is to describe and comment in detail on the manufacturing process of these two drinks, contributing to the preservation of this cultural heritage. To this end, a prestigious manufacturer was selected that allowed us to monitor and document all the procedures of its activity for four months (1973-1974). The ingredients common to both beverages are water, maize flour or maize fuba, ombundi root - Pseudeminia benguellensis (Torre) Verdc. - and microorganisms contained in product waste stored in gourds from one manufacture to the next. In the manufacture of beer, corn malt is also used.

Phytosomes-unraveling the Unique Properties of Plant-derived Nanotechnological Drug Delivery Systems: A Review.

Phytosomes are innovative compounds that enhance the bioavailability of plant-derived compounds, making them more effective in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. By improving cellular absorption, phytosomes allow lower doses of plant extracts to achieve therapeutic effects, which may reduce both cost and the risk of potential side effects. The incorporation of phospholipids in phytosomes not only stabilizes the active compounds but also protects them from degradation in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially increasing their shelf life and efficacy. Despite their promise, more clinical trials are essential to fully validate the safety and therapeutic benefits of phytosomes. Ongoing research and developments may lead to a better understanding of their mechanisms of action and safety profiles and broaden their application in medicine.

Rapid depletion of total sugars in stored sweet corn seeds limits shelf life

Sweet corn, a naturally occurring mutant of field corn, is characterized by elevated levels of water-soluble polysaccharides due to the inhibition of sugar-to-starch conversion during seed development. This mutation results in seeds with lower carbohydrate reserves, which pose challenges such as reduced germination, seed vigour, poor field establishment, and limited shelf life. In this study, we investigated the relationship between food reserve levels and seed germination and vigour in sweet corn over a storage period. Seeds from both sweet and field corn, each with 8% moisture content, were stored under three conditions: ambient air, nitrogen, and vacuum. After six months, sweet corn seeds exhibited a 30% decrease in germination under ambient conditions, accompanied by a 73% reduction in total sugars. In contrast, field corn seeds showed a 6% decrease in germination and a 22% reduction in total starch under the same conditions. Notably, seed germination and seedling dry matter production were significantly and positively correlated with food reserve levels in both sweet and field corn across all storage environments. Total sugars were identified as a significant contributor to seed germination in sweet corn (p < 0.05), with regression models showing high R² values (0.9860 to 0.9998), indicating strong alignment with the observed data. These findings suggest that the depletion of total sugars in sweet corn seeds, driven by respiration and oxidation during storage, plays a critical role in the decline of seed quality and shelf life.

Nanoemulsion: A Promising Nanotechnology Tool to Achieve the Unmet Oral Bioavailability Enhancement Needs

Background: Low oral permeability and low aqueous solubility are considered significant obstacles in achieving systemic therapeutic concentration to show optimum pharmacological response. Pharmaceutical scientists endeavored to overcome the above-stated problem after utilizing various approaches like salt formation, pro-drugs, co-solvency, complexation, solubilization, pH adjustment, sold dispersion, hydrotrophy, and nanotechnology-based techniques. Objective: Among these approaches, nanotechnology-based drug carrier systems have been investigated to address the challenges of the drugs exhibiting poor oral absorption. Essentially, these systems have the potential to overcome the limitations associated with the oral route of drug administration. Among various nano-technological tools, nanoemulsion plays an important role in the bioavailability enhancement of biopharmaceutical classification system Class II, and Class IV drugs, in general and, Class III, in particular. Method: A nanoemulsion is a colloidal system with a size in nanometers, an increased fraction of the dispersed phase, and intensified transparency. Either water is dispersed in oil (w/o type) or oil is dispersed in water (o/w type), and it has a longer shelf life. Results: Nanoemulsion is being utilized as an important drug carrier for bioavailability enhancement; however, it poses some challenges, such as clinical translation, large-scale manufacturing, and regulatory guidelines. Conclusion: The current review aims to compile and discuss the problems faced in the delivery of drugs exhibiting poor oral absorption, challenges faced in oral drug delivery, oral absorption enhancement techniques, mechanism of oral uptake using nanoemulsion, various modifications of nanoemulsion, clinical status, large-scale manufacturing, regulatory status, and new prospects in the future.

Soy Protein Isolate Edible Coating Incorporated with Pomegranate (<i>Punica granatum</i> L.) Peel Extract: Effect on Quality of Fresh-Cut Pineapples

This study investigated the development of an edible coating using soy protein isolate (SPI) and pomegranate peel extract (PPE) to extend the shelf life of fresh-cut pineapple (FCP). Different dipping times (0, 2, 3, and 4 min) of the FCP in the coating solution were evaluated, and the samples were stored at 4 °C for 15 days, with analyses performed on days 0, 3, 8, 10, and 15. Results showed that the coated FCPs exhibited higher firmness and titratable acidity. Furthermore, the PPE-SPI coating also prevented weight loss as well as delayed the increase in pH and total soluble solids, suggesting slower senescence and enhanced preservation. Notably, a 4 min dipping time significantly (p < 0.05) reduced total plate count and yeast and mould count compared to control samples by 30% and 40%, respectively. The study suggests that longer dipping times enhance the effectiveness of the PPE-SPI coating in extending the shelf life of FCP, showcasing the potential of the PPE-SPI coating as an alternative to synthetic preservation methods for fresh-cut fruits.

MRNA Vaccines: Unlocking Potential, Exploring Applications, and Envisioning Future Horizons.

In recent years, there have been notable strides in developing mRNA vaccines, resulting in the creation of potent immunizations against diverse diseases. This review examines the most recent advancements in this field, focusing on their implications for future vaccine development. The pursuit of heightened vaccine efficacy is investigated through cutting-edge methods in adjuvant selection, delivery system optimization, and antigen selection. The review also explores the potential for personalized vaccines based on genetic profiles, along with the latest techniques to ensure vaccine stability and extend shelf life. Highlighting the versatility of mRNA vaccines in addressing emerging infectious diseases and their variations, the review underscores the significance of swift response plans and advanced technologies to counter evolving viral mutations. In summary, this in-depth analysis emphasizes how mRNA vaccines hold transformative potential in reshaping both therapeutic and preventive strategies. Notable achievements include the creation of extremely potent mRNA vaccinations against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, resulting in the COVID-19 pandemic. Ongoing efforts to address challenges like long-term immune protection and increase the effectiveness and stability of mRNA vaccines are also discussed. This review's main goal is to provide a thorough summary of current advancements in mRNA vaccine technology while exploring how these advances may impact future approaches to treating and preventing different diseases.

Enhanced storage and gastrointestinal stability of spray-dried whey protein emulsions with chitosan and gum Arabic.

Protein-based emulsions are widely utilized for delivering bioactives but suffer from thermodynamic instability, microbial spoilage, and gastrointestinal instability, necessitating enhancement strategies. This study explores the improvement of whey protein isolate (WPI) emulsions through chitosan (CS) coating and spray drying with maltodextrin (MD) or gum Arabic (GA). Canola oil droplets were stabilized with WPI, electrostatic coated with CS, and spray-dried. CS addition significantly increased entrapment efficiency from ∼75-78% to ∼95-98%, correlating with enhanced storage and gastrointestinal stability. During a 2-h gastric digestion study, CS/GA-protected powders demonstrated only 3.6% lipolysis compared to 27.1% for unprotected WPI emulsions, exhibiting superior gastric resistance. Under small intestinal conditions, their digestion rate constant was one-fifth of that for unprotected WPI emulsions. Furthermore, CS/GA-protected powders maintained excellent storage stability for one year. These findings highlight the potential of WPI-based emulsion powders as effective oral delivery systems for lipophilic bioactives, offering improved storage and gastrointestinal stability.

2-Propanol Suspension Method to Increase Acetylcholinesterase and Flow Stability on μPADs.

Ensuring detection performance and shelf life is crucial for analytical devices. Advances in materials and reaction mechanisms have improved detection performance, yet extending the operational lifetime of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs)─especially those reliant on sensitive enzymes─remains a challenge. Here, we present an alternative to air-drying and lyophilization: loading enzymes suspended in 2-propanol (iPrOH). By suspending the enzyme in iPrOH, we circumvent the enzyme activity losses commonly associated with freeze-thawing and freeze-drying. Accelerated aging tests, supported by statistical analyses of long-term activity retention (including comparisons over multiple time points), indicate that while conventional methods do not sustain consistent superiority, the iPrOH suspension method maintains higher enzymatic activity over extended periods. By avoiding stabilizers and circumventing the limitations of other techniques, our method enables μPADs to achieve both longevity and stable fluid flow. Thus, we provide a more robust, on-site analytical platform capable of reliable on-site detection.

Comparison of the Quality and Internal Physiological Disorders of ‘Wonhwang’ Pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) of Different Fruit Sizes during Shelf Life after Cold Storage

Comparison of the Quality and Internal Physiological Disorders of ‘Wonhwang’ Pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) of Different Fruit Sizes during Shelf Life after Cold Storage

Citric Acid Cross-Linked Gelatin/Pectin Coatings Increase Shelf Life of Ripe Grapes

Citric Acid Cross-Linked Gelatin/Pectin Coatings Increase Shelf Life of Ripe Grapes

Mucilage-based composites films and coatings for food packaging application: A review.

Developing sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions has garnered significant interest in recent years. Mucilage-based coatings and composites offer a promising approach due to their biodegradability, renewable nature, and ability to enhance food quality protection. This review paper discusses the impact of mucilage-based composites and coatings on various packaging applications, focusing on their physical, mechanical, morphological, barrier, and functional properties. These materials' adaptability, flexibility, transparency, and compatibility with various food products make them highly suitable for food packaging. The morphological structure of mucilage-based films contributes to improved adhesion, surface roughness, and homogeneity. Enhanced barriers against moisture, oxygen, and other gases extend the shelf life of packaged food while maintaining its quality. Mucilage from different plant sources exhibits functional properties such as antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, which enhance food preservation. These attributes and mucilage's biocompatibility and biodegradability align with the growing demand for environmentally friendly packaging options. The review also addresses cost-effectiveness, regulatory compliance, consumer acceptance, recycling infrastructure compatibility, supply chain considerations, and the need for ongoing innovation. Future advancements in mucilage-based packaging will depend on optimizing performance, scalability, and sustainability. By understanding the effects on physio-mechanical, morphological, barrier, and functional attributes, mucilage-based composites and coatings hold great potential for advancing sustainable food packaging solutions.

Chitosan-Based Zinc Oxide and Silver Nanoparticles Coating on Postharvest Quality of Papaya

The study aimed to investigate the effects of chitosan-based zinc oxide and silver nanoparticles coating on physicochemical properties of papaya and to optimize nanoparticles concentrations for extending its postharvest shelf life. The experiment was conducted in February, 2022 at the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS), Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with nine treatments and three replications. The treatments consisted of different concentrations (50 ppm, 100 ppm, 150 ppm, and 200 ppm) of either Zinc oxide and silver nanoparticles, along with a control. Zinc oxide and silver nanoparticles were synthesized from banana peel extract and the average crystalline sizes were found to be 22.30nm and 4.46nm, respectively. Fruits were dipped in 1.5% (w/v) chitosan with 50–200 ppm of zinc oxide and silver nanoparticles and then stored at ambient temperature (14±1.6°C) and ~75% RH. The nanoparticles coatings slowed changes in total soluble solids (TSS) and total titratable acidity (TTA), delaying ripening. Treated fruits showed reduced physiological loss in weight and maintained firmness better than control, with firmness decreasing to 4.79 kg in untreated fruits compared to 7.35 kg in coated fruits on 18th day of storage. Coated fruits retained more ascorbic acid, and the storage life increased by 8 and 9 days with 150 and 200 ppm treatments, respectively. However, consumer preference declined for concentrations above 150 ppm. Thus, 100–150 ppm chitosan-based zinc oxide/silver nanoparticles are found to be effective for extending shelf-life and maintaining physiochemical characteristics of papaya. However, its residual and health-related dimensions need to be extensively studied before its commercial application. SAARC J. Agric., 22(2): 181-196 (2024)

The Preservation Potential of Utazi and Scent Leaf Extracts against Spoilage Microbes Isolated from Spoilt Water Yam

The Preservation Potential of Utazi and Scent Leaf Extracts against Spoilage Microbes Isolated from Spoilt Water Yam

Enhancing postharvest quality of bananas: comparative study on the use ZnO and Ag2O nanoparticles and ZnO/Ag2O composites

The ‘Cavendish’ banana is cultivated for its flavor and nutritional value, but its climacteric nature leads to rapid ripening and reduced shelf life. Preserving postharvest quality is crucial for minimizing losses and ensuring consumer satisfaction. Nanoparticles such as ZnO and Ag2O have shown promise in extending the shelf life and maintaining the quality of perishable fruits. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ZnO- and Ag₂O-enriched edible coatings on the postharvest physicochemical quality of ‘Cavendish’ bananas stored at ambient temperature. Bananas were treated with five different formulations: (1) moringa extract alone (MG), (2) moringa extract combined with carboxymethyl cellulose and glycerol (MG + CMC + GLY), (3) carboxymethyl cellulose and glycerol with Ag2O nanoparticles (Ag2O), (4) carboxymethyl cellulose and glycerol with ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO), and (5) carboxymethyl cellulose and glycerol with a combination of Ag2O and ZnO nanoparticles (Ag2O + ZnO). The effects on key quality parameters, including weight loss, color retention, total soluble solids, total acidity, pH, and peel structure, were assessed. At the end of the storage period, the fruits treated with ZnO + Ag₂O nanoparticles demonstrated a significantly lower decay incidence of 44.44% than the control (100%). Similarly, nanoparticle-enriched treatments maintained higher L* (1.46-fold), b*(1.38-fold), and ho (1.11-fold) values than the control treatment. Remarkably, the Ag2O + ZnO composite formulation showed the most significant positive effects on total acidity, pH, and stomatal cell integrity toward improving banana quality. This study highlights the potential of ZnO/Ag2O composites as effective postharvest treatments to enhance banana quality and extend shelf life, providing a promising approach to reduce postharvest losses and ensure fruit quality during storage and transportation.

Enhancing Cordyceps Sinensis shelf life: The role of liquid nitrogen spray freezing in maintaining hypha structure and reducing metabolic degradation.

Cordyceps sinensis (C. sinensis) is a valuable edible fungus, known for its therapeutic benefits, including immune enhancement and anti-inflammatory effects, making it an important component in nutritional applications. However, its delicate nature makes long-term storage challenging, with conventional freezing often leading to the loss of bioactive compounds. This study evaluates liquid nitrogen spray freezing (LNSF) at -80°C and-120°C compared to conventional freezing (CF) at -20°C over 90days of storage. Our findings show that LNSF at -120°C (LNSF-120) preserved superior color quality, sensory attributes, and reduced thawing loss at endpoint, while both LNSF temperatures stabilized total sugars, amino acids, cordycepin, adenosine levels, as well as antioxidant enzyme activities and free radical scavenging capacities. These results suggest that LNSF is a superior method for the long-term preservation of C. sinensis, with diverse advantages and their corresponding shelf lives associated with the two different LNSF temperatures.

Bioactive potential and storage behavior of low molecular mass peptides in Pilsner and IPA style craft beers

Beer, one of the most widely consumed alcoholic beverages globally, is typically produced from barley and hops, and contains carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, ethanol, and bioactive phytochemicals such as phenolic compounds. However, the knowledge of protein content, particularly bioactive peptides in beer, remains limited. Given that beer production involves raw materials rich in both proteins and proteolytic enzymes, which may remain active throughout the product’s shelf life, beer holds potential as a source of bioactive peptides. This study aimed to investigate the presence of bioactive di- and tripeptides in craft beer samples from Pilsner and IPA styles, after 3 or 6 months of storage. LC-MS/MS analysis was performed using the 46 Da neutral loss method and collision-induced dissociation, followed by peptide bioactivity screening through the BIOPEP database. Twelve di- and tripeptides, with masses ranging from 177 to 329 (m/z), were identified, exhibiting potential bioactivities such as dipeptidyl peptidase IV and III inhibition, ACE inhibition, and antioxidative properties. These activities are associated with reduced risk of high blood pressure and metabolic syndrome. After 3 months of storage, peptide intensity decreased in Pilsner samples but increased in IPA samples. Pilsner beers, typically clear due to added chill-proofing proteases, showed reduced peptide intensity over time, whereas IPA, which often remains hazy and lacks such enzymes, exhibited increased peptide levels. These findings suggest that Pilsner beers may benefit from quicker consumption, while IPA may be better suited for longer storage to maximize bioactive peptide intake.

Development of Optimized Liquid Formulations of Azospirillum, Phosphate-Solubilizing Bacteria, and Rhizobium Strains for Enhanced Viability and Shelf Life

The aim of this study was to evaluate the stability and shelf-life of Rhizobium, Azospirillum, and Pseudomonas striata a Phosphate Solubilizing Bacterium (PSB) in liquid formulations under ambient conditions, with a focus on the impact of various additives on the viability of these microbes over a 12-month period. Liquid formulations of Rhizobium strains NC-92, Sb-120, and Gr-2, Azospirillum, and PSB were prepared with different combinations of additives such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), gum arabic (GA), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and glycerol. The formulations were stored under ambient conditions, and colony-forming unit (CFU) counts were assessed at regular intervals over the year. The results revealed that formulations with higher concentrations of PVP, GA, and PEG maintained significantly higher CFU counts. Azospirillum formulations, particularly F20, exhibited superior viability, maintaining 2.2 × 10⁷ CFU after 12 months compared to rapid declines in other formulations such as F2, F8, and F16. Rhizobium NC-92 in basal medium + 1% PVP (F1) retained 5.2 × 10⁸ CFU after 12 months, while Sb-120 in basal medium + 1% PVP (T1) demonstrated high stability, maintaining 6.9 × 10⁸ CFU over six months. PSB formulations containing combinations of glycerol, PEG, and PVP also performed better, with the best formulation retaining 6.2 × 10⁸ CFU after 12 months. The study highlights the importance of certain additives such as PVP, GA, and PEG in improving the stability and shelf life of microbial compositions. Optimized formulations significantly increased viability, laying the groundwork for the development of robust biofertilizer solutions.