Pertanika Journal of Tropical Agricultural Science
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Pertanika · Universiti Putra Malaysia Press

Pertanika Journal of Tropical Agricultural Science

Official journal of Universiti Putra Malaysia for peer-reviewed research across tropical agriculture and allied agricultural sciences.

e-ISSN 2231-8542 ISSN 1511-3701
Research article

Performance of Maltodextrin-Pectin-Based Edible Coating with Lemongrass Essential Oil for Extending the Shelf Life of Fresh Tomatoes

Hermawan Dwi Ariyanto, Mohamad Endy Yulianto, Anggun Puspitarini Siswanto, Hidefumi Yoshii, Azirokh Nabilahzahra, Ayu Pita Kurniasari, and Oktavia Tri Purwanti

https://doi.org/10.47836/pjtas.49.3.06
KeywordsEdible film, essential oil, post-harvest, tomato
Article content

Abstract

Tomatoes are highly perishable fruits that continue metabolic and respiratory activities after harvest, leading to nutrient degradation and rapid spoilage. Edible coatings offer an environmentally friendly solution owing to their biodegradability and low environmental impact. This study examined the effect of incorporating lemongrass essential oil (EO) into a maltodextrin-pectin-based protective coating on tomato quality and shelf life. The protective coating was applied by spraying after 20 hours at temperatures between 30 °C and 4 °C. Both coated and uncoated samples (control) were analysed based on parameters such as colour change, hardness, mass loss, bacterial growth, and physical damage. The concentrations of lemongrass essential oil used were 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% (v/v). The results showed that a concentration of 2% was the most effective in enhancing the function of the protective coating, which was characterised by reduced weight loss, better texture retention, and inhibited microbial activity. After 20 days of storage, the fruit exhibited weight loss of 0.05% at 30 °C and 0.04% at 4 °C. In addition, the colour change was relatively small, and the tomato flavour remained stable. Thus, the use of a natural protective coating based on lemongrass essential oil can reduce post-harvest losses in perishable fruit.