Seeking Protective Coating for Packaged Fresh Fruit

A SpecialChem Client is seeking in package systems (preferably coatings that can be applied using a coater on paper-based material) for protecting fresh fruits from ripening and spoilage.

Postharvest fruits often generate ethylene and are sensitive to ethylene from the environment, leading to an accelerated ripening process, dehydration and spoilage. Packaging solutions for corrugated board that address these issues are typically either permanganate based Tyvek sachets that protect fruit from direct contact while oxidizing ethylene or plastic bags that control the atmosphere through selective permeation of gasses. The SpecialChem client is looking for alternatives to protect packaged fresh fruits.

The SpecialChem Client is looking for a solution increasing the postharvest shelf life of tropical fruit such as bananas, papaya, mangoes and melons packaged on open, ventilated containers from the farm to retail.
Ideally, the solution would:

• consist of an aqueous coating that can be applied on-line with the corrugating process which is safe for food contact
• not use plastic films
• increase the postharvest shelf life of fruit packaged on open, ventilated containers from the farm to retail
• remain active in humid elevated temperatures as well as the cold chain storage
• last at least 10 weeks

The solution must:

• be approved for food contact by the FDA
• be applicable in aqueous form without added organic solvents
• be compatible with recycling processes for paperboard materials

Solutions that can be readily adopted within one year are preferred.