Postharvest quality and safety maintenance of the physical properties of <i>Daucus carota</i> L. fruits by Neem oil and <i>Moringa</i> oil treatment: A new edible coatings

Abstract

Biodegradable edible coatings from Moringa oil(MO) and Neem oil (NO) was applied to carrot fruits in order to provide environmentally friendly, healthy treatments (with which to better preserve fresh fruit quality) and safety during postharvest storage at ambient temperature of 27± 3oC and relative humidity of 50-60% . Physical properties like weight loss and texture were determined throughout the storage period of 6 weeks. The coatings had a significant effect on the development of quality variables.The overall results showed the superiority of the coatings in extending the shelf-life of carrot fruit as compared to controlin the following order Moringa Oil>Neem Oil>Control.

Keywords: Edible Coatings, Moringa Oil, Neem Oil, Carrot, Firmness and Weight Loss.