Effect of Three Different Gel-Based Edible Coatings on the Quality of Fresh-Cut "Hayward" Kiwifruits.

In recent years, the market for minimally processed fruit has increased. Fresh-cut fruits are characterized by a short shelf life due to the processing phases that accelerate the ripening courses. The aim of this work is to analyze the effect on the quality of fresh-cut Hayward kiwis of three different edible coatings based on (1) gel, (2) gel + hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and (3) gel + lemon essential oil. Fruit firmness, weight loss, color, soluble solids content, titratable acidity, microbial load and sensory analysis were evaluated as fresh after 2, 4, 7 and 10 days. gel and gel + lemon essential oil maintained the best values, as they acted as a barrier to gas exchange and further reduced the microbial load. These results were confirmed by sensory analysis: gel + hydroxypropyl methylcellulose does not alter the natural taste of kiwi slices, gel + lemon essential oil gives the characteristic taste of lemon essential oil and gel gives an herbaceous taste. The gel, in combination with these additives, maintains the ability to preserve the quality of fresh-cut kiwifruit.