Effect of chitosan-olive oil emulsion coating on quality of tomatoes during storage at ambient conditions

BACKGROUND: Tomato, a berry with a high nutritional content, is one of the most important vegetables due to its commercial importance, easy manipulation and rapid production cycle. The application of biodegradable films and coatings as alternative preservation method, provides a protective layer and creates a modified atmosphere in the fruit. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of chitosan-olive oil coatings on the quality of tomatoes cv. Charleston during their storage at 27 +/- 1 degrees C and 80% RH. METHODS: According with the treatments, chitosan at 1 and 2% (w/v) in 1% (v/v) of lactic acid was dissolved by stirring during 2 h at 40 degrees C and then was emulsified with olive oil at 2 and 4% (v/v). RESULTS: Tomatoes coated with chitosan at 2% (w/v) with 2 and 4% (v/v) of olive oil presented the higher weight losses. CONCLUSIONS: Coatings from chitosan-olive oil emulsion delayed the ripening and maintained the firmness of tomatoes cv. Charleston with respect to uncoated fruits during storage, although these coatings did not act as an effective barriers against the weight loss. These results can be helpful for horticulturists and agro-food products distributors, as well as for the postharvest technologists.