Spray technology applications of xanthan gum-based edible coatings for fresh-cut lotus root (Nelumbo nucifera)

In this study, the effect of spraying method as an application technique for xanthan gum-based edible coatings was investigated, based on its barrier and microbial properties on fresh-cut lotus root. Xanthan gum solutions (0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5%) were prepared and incorporated with 2% (w/w) citric acid as an anti-browning agent and 1% (w/w) glycerol as plasticizer. The coatings were then sprayed using a pilot spray system to 5 mm-thick slices of fresh-cut lotus root for 20 s, packed in polyethylene bags, stored for 16 d at 5 °C and analyzed for color, pH, morphology and microbial counts. It was found that spray-coated fresh-cut lotus root samples had significant reduction in the total color changes as compared to non-coated samples. The experimental results suggested that the spray coating treatments were effective in decreasing the enzymatic browning of fresh-cut lotus root during storage which could potentially increase its shelf-life in the market. In addition, we have also found that the xanthan gum-based spray coated treatments were also effective against inhibiting the growth of Bacillus subtilis during 24 h of incubation which were indicated by the lower microbial counts recorded as compared to non-coated fresh-cut lotus root samples. In this part of the work, the author highlighted the spray coating technique of xanthan gum-based edible coatings as a promising strategy in improving the storage stability of fresh-cut lotus root during post-harvest storage. Overall, the application of edible coatings is a promising strategy in extending the shelf life of fresh-cut lotus root. In the future, the author aims to widen the scope of the application of these coatings to other agricultural products which are prone to degradation during storage in the market.