Chinese scientists create edible fruit coating that ‘more than doubles' shelf life
Chinese scientists have developed an edible, washable protein-based coating that can extend the shelf life of fruits by 2½ times, by reducing moisture loss and microbial growth.
Advertisement
The low-cost coating was tested across 17 varieties of whole and cut fruits, including strawberry, tomato, kiwi and mango. It was shown to effectively delay rot by almost a week or more, at a cost of just 9 US cents per kilogram of fruit, according to a recent paper in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Communications.
The new strategy is as effective as existing preservation methods but reduces carbon dioxide emissions and the potential for toxicity, offering a promising solution to a major factor in
global food waste
'Addressing critical challenges in perishable fruit preservation…we present an eco-friendly amyloid-like protein coating strategy developed through computer-aided molecular simulation,' the team led by researchers at Shaanxi Normal University said in their paper published on May 31.
'With edible properties, easy washability, and low cost, the coating demonstrates universal applicability for post-harvest and fresh-cut fruits.'
Advertisement
Around a third of all food produced globally is wasted, most of it perishable items like fruits and vegetables.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
South China Morning Post
an hour ago
- South China Morning Post
Chinese military robotics lab creates mosquito-sized microdrone for covert operations
A robotics laboratory at the National University of Defence Technology (NUDT) in central China's Hunan province has developed a mosquito-sized drone for covert military operations. NUDT researchers showed their work on different types of robots – from humanoid machines to tiny drones barely visible to the eye – in a report aired on CCTV 7, China Central Television's military channel, on June 14. 'Here in my hand is a mosquito-like type of robot. Miniature bionic robots like this one are especially suited to information reconnaissance and special missions on the battlefield', Liang Hexiang, a student at NUDT, told CCTV while holding up the drone between his fingers. 08:18 Flying taxis, airships and drones: the rise of China's low-altitude economy Flying taxis, airships and drones: the rise of China's low-altitude economy In the video of the UAV, two tiny wings with a leaflike structure were attached to the sides of the stick-shaped drone body along with three hair-thin 'legs'. The report highlighting advances in robotics engineering also showed a prototype controlled via smartphone with four wings, two moving horizontally on each side of the body. Their tiny size makes manufacturing this new type of drone challenging: sensors, power devices, control circuits and other elements must fit into an extremely limited space. It requires collaboration between various disciplines, such as the engineering of microscopic devices, materials science and bionics. The micro UAV Black Hornet, a palm-sized, helicopter-shaped drone developed in Norway, is widely used by armed forces around the globe today.
South China Morning Post
5 hours ago
- South China Morning Post
Chinese scientists create edible fruit coating that ‘more than doubles' shelf life
Chinese scientists have developed an edible, washable protein-based coating that can extend the shelf life of fruits by 2½ times, by reducing moisture loss and microbial growth. Advertisement The low-cost coating was tested across 17 varieties of whole and cut fruits, including strawberry, tomato, kiwi and mango. It was shown to effectively delay rot by almost a week or more, at a cost of just 9 US cents per kilogram of fruit, according to a recent paper in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Communications. The new strategy is as effective as existing preservation methods but reduces carbon dioxide emissions and the potential for toxicity, offering a promising solution to a major factor in global food waste 'Addressing critical challenges in perishable fruit preservation…we present an eco-friendly amyloid-like protein coating strategy developed through computer-aided molecular simulation,' the team led by researchers at Shaanxi Normal University said in their paper published on May 31. 'With edible properties, easy washability, and low cost, the coating demonstrates universal applicability for post-harvest and fresh-cut fruits.' Advertisement Around a third of all food produced globally is wasted, most of it perishable items like fruits and vegetables.
South China Morning Post
8 hours ago
- South China Morning Post
Hong Kong Science Fair showcases local students' AI and tech innovations
[The content of this article has been produced by our advertising partner.] Hong Kong is rapidly emerging as a global hub for innovation and technology (I&T), with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and the cultivation of young talent. Driven by forward-thinking government strategies, the city is accelerating advancements in AI and other cutting-edge technologies and creating dynamic opportunities for the next generation of tech pioneers to build a thriving innovation ecosystem. A vital part of this trend is the organisation of I&T events that inspire and equip young minds with the tools to explore new technologies, collaborate with industry leaders, and transform bold ideas into reality. The Hong Kong Science Fair (Science Fair), organised by the Hong Kong Innovation Foundation (HKIF) annually, supports the local innovation ecosystem. Returning for its fourth edition on June 28 and 29 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the event has become an important showcase for inventions. Professionals, academics, families, and science enthusiasts gather to explore new ideas and engage with the next wave of innovators. A launchpad for ideas The Science Fair attracts tens of thousands of visitors, offering hands-on workshops and a chance to discover 120 shortlisted student projects under the inspiring theme 'Think Big, Be Innovative.'
