Development and application of Opuntia ficus-indica mucilage films incorporated with zinc oxide nanoparticles for active packaging of cherry tomatoes

Key Points

• This research aims to explore the effectiveness of Opuntia ficus-indica mucilage films incorporated with zinc oxide nanoparticles in extending the shelf life of cherry tomatoes.
• Developed agro-waste-derived OFIM/CNF/ZnO nanocomposite coatings
• Tested coatings on cherry tomatoes for shelf-life extension and quality preservation
• Evaluated impact on postharvest losses
• Significant reduction in spoilage rates of cherry tomatoes with the use of nanocomposite coatings
• Extended shelf life by 30%, improving quality preservation
• Supported global food security by reducing waste at the postharvest stage