A review on natural polymer-based film/coating in postharvest mushroom preservation

Abstract

Mushrooms are a nutrient-rich food with medicinal properties, consumed globally for their health benefits. However, their high moisture content (over 90%) and lack of a protective shield make them highly susceptible to mechanical damage and microbial spoilage, resulting in significant postharvest losses. These challenges underscore the need for effective preservation methods to extend shelf life and minimize spoilage. Traditional approaches such as thermal, chemical, or physical treatments have been widely used. Nowadays, advanced packaging techniques like modified atmospheric packaging and active packaging have shown promise in maintaining mushroom quality for extended periods. However, the reliance on non-biodegradable plastics in these systems poses significant environmental concerns. Biodegradable and edible biopolymers have emerged as sustainable alternatives, offering environmental and functional benefits over conventional fossil fuel-based materials. This review highlights the latest advancements in biobased and edible packaging systems, including films and coatings derived from plants, animals, and microbes, specifically tailored for mushroom preservation. These materials not only enhance shelf life but also align with sustainable development goals. Despite the potential and promise of biopolymer-based mushroom packaging, challenges such as scalability, cost, and performance consistency must be addressed. This review also provides a foundation for future research aimed at developing efficient and eco-friendly postharvest preservation methods for mushrooms.