Recent advancements in biotechnology have focused on developing sustainable and natural bio-protectors to enhance the perishable fruits' shelf life and safety.
An enthusiastic team of researchers from Universidad Tecnica del Norte (UTN)-Ecuador, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA)-Colombia, and Universidad de Talca (UT)-Chile with financial support of FONTAGRO-BID, are developing bio-protectors based on bioactive molecules from probiotic bacteria, natural products, and plant hormones as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical preservatives, aligning with the growing demand for clean-label products.
The project led by Prof. Dr. Gabriela N. Tenea, UTN-Ecuador, in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Miguel-Angel Puertas-UdeA, and Prof. Dr. Carlos R. Figueroa-UT, and the associated organizations ‘Terrafertil S.A.’ from Ecuador and ‘Frutimar A.G’ and ‘S.A.T. Frutillas Chanco-Pelluhue’ from Chile, will test the novel bio-protectors in cape gooseberries (Physalis peruviana) and strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa).
This coating creates a thin barrier that prevents the attachment and proliferation of harmful microorganisms while preserving the fruit’s sensory and healthy qualities.
The benefits of these multifunctional bio-protectors include:
- Increased food safety by minimizing pathogen contamination.
- Extended shelf life by slowing down microbial spoilage.
- Reduction in post-harvest losses, especially during storage and transport.
- Increased health-promoting components in food.
- Natural and biodegradable alternative to synthetic chemicals.
With consumer interest in sustainable agriculture and natural preservation methods, this initiative could become a key innovation in fruit preservation strategies, supporting both environmental goals and food security initiatives.
