The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), India and the University of Guelph, Canada, have collaborated to develop a ‘nano-film’ that would extend the shelf life of fruits by several days.
The technology uses a chemical compound Hexanal, which is already present in many fruits and vegetables and is responsible for the strong odor released by certain vegetables when they are sliced, deccanchronicle.com reported.
TNAU vice-chancellor Dr Murugesa Boopathi said post harvest loss was a matter of concern as around 25 to 30% of fruits produced were damaged during transport and storage.
"Packaging is the critical link between the producer and consumer," Boopathi added.
Researchers at University of Guelph revealed that hexanal will enhance the shelf-life and quality, while the scientists at TNAU developed a bio-film based delivery of chemicals for agriculture.
The project will develop a Hexanal Smart Delivery System using a nano-carrier that carries hexanal vapour and combine both the concepts to extend the shelf life of mangoes.
