Evaluation of beeswax coated coconut shells for packaging of set-type : an Indian fermented product.

An attempt was made to develop coconut shell-based eco-friendly packaging material for the packaging of set-type . Beeswax was used to improve the moisture barrier properties of coconut shell (CS). UV treatment for 60 min showed complete disinfection of the coconut shell surface. The top open side of the coconut shell was sealed with aluminium foil using pectin solution as adhesive. Set-type was prepared and packaged in beeswax coated CS (BCCS) and evaluated for physico-chemical, textural, sensorial and microbiological quality changes for a period of 21 days at 6 ± 1 °C. The rate of increase in acidity was found slower in BCCS as compared to packaged in polypropylene cups (control). There was no whey separation, consequently water-holding capacity and firmness of product were better in packaged in BCCS. The sensorial analysis revealed better body and texture properties for packaged in BCCS. However, the flavour score of packaged in BCCS decreased comparatively after 12 days due to the absorption of coconut flavor by the product. These findings demonstrated the potential of coconut shell based eco-friendly packaging material for packaging set-type and thereby aim to reduce the use of non-biodegradable plastics.