Use of an α-Cyclodextrin–Tween Nanoencapsulation with Curcumin and Piperine Edible Coatings for Soft Fruit Preservation Applications

Phytochemical nanoencapsulation is a rapidly emerging technology in the post-harvest processing sector for multiple applications. Edible coatings and aerosol-derived hydrocolloid films are one example of distinct potential uses intended to extend the shelf life of food products by forming a protective barrier that mitigates microbial contamination and moisture loss. Here, we propose a novel approach that combines embedding dual phytochemical-encapsulated nanoparticles within an α-cyclodextrin–Tween-based edible coating. An optimized phytochemical mixture of curcumin/piperine, incorporated into nanoparticles (NPs) using a central composite design, resulted in the development of a matrix with α-cyclodextrin inclusion and Tween 20 stabilization, which provided minimal particle size (≈285 nm) and maximal encapsulation efficiency (≈98%). When applied as an aerosol to strawberries and blueberries, the curcumin/piperine NPs significantly extended shelf-life at ambient temperature (22°C) and preserved fruit quality during refrigerated storage (4°C) (P<0.05). Constructed nanocomplexes exhibited pH-dependent release behavior and varying, but significant (P<0.05) antimicrobial activity against , Escherichia coli Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus luteus, and Enterobacter aerogenes. Texture attributes of fruits, including hardness, cohesiveness, and chewiness were preserved, while enhanced retention of vitamin C corresponded with improved total phenolic content and total antioxidant capacity (P<0.05). The carry-over antioxidant activity was also observed using differentiated Caco-2 cells in vitro (P<0.05). Overall, this hydrocolloid-based approach of using α-cyclodextrin–Tween nanoencapsulation with curcumin/piperine bioactives enabled a highly effective and food-grade post-harvest strategy for extending the shelf-life and nutritional quality of soft fresh fruits.