ANÁLISE DA APLICAÇÃO DE REVESTIMENTOS COMESTÍVEIS NA CONSERVAÇÃO PÓS-COLHEITA DE CITROS

Abstract

The genus Citrus encompasses several species of great nutritional and medicinal importance. In Brazil, the production of orange (Citrus sinensis) and acid lime (C. latifolia) stands out. Although citrus fruits are classified as non-climacteric, that is, they do not ripen after harvest, they undergo changes such as loss of mass and changes in color. These changes direct impact  the quality of fruit for export and the domestic Market. Post-harvest conservation is crucial due to the phytosanitary challenges faced, such as pests and diseases that affect production. Although chemical are commonly used to control of post-harvest diseases in citrus, the demand for fruit free of chemical residues has driven the search for alternative control strategies, such as natural compounds. Edible coatings, which are biodegradable, emerge as one of these alternatives. When applied directky to the fruits, they form an additional protective layer. This study aims to conduct a review on the effectiveness of different types of edible coatings for extend the shelf life of citrus fruits after harvest. The methodology used included a broad bibliographic survey in scientific databases, virtual libraries and academic repositories, using keywords pertinent to the theme. The selected articles were carefully evaluated for relevance, timeliness and credibility of the sources. The results obtained indicate that coatings such as beeswax and pectin, combined with essential oils, demonstrated efficacy in reducing mass loss and maintaining the visual and sensory quality of fruit such as tangerines and pear oranges. In conclusion, several studies show that the use of natural and bioactive coatings can be a promising strategy for extend the shelf life and preserve the quality of citrus fruits. However, it is crucial to continue investigating the possible impacts of these treatments on the flavor of the fruit,  aiming to optimize these techniques and ensure consumer acceptance.