Next-generation chitosan-based edible coatings for shelf-life extension of berries: Bioactive enrichment and nano-enabled strategies

Berries are highly perishable products that experience swift postharvest degradation due to elevated moisture levels, fragile texture and vulnerability to microorganisms. Chitosan-based edible coatings have emerged as viable biodegradable alternatives to traditional preservation methods due to their film-forming, antibacterial and antioxidant characteristics. This review rigorously evaluates recent developments in chitosan coatings, highlighting the integration of bioactive compounds and nano-enabled systems. These coatings function by establishing semipermeable barriers, regulating respiration and ethylene dynamics, augmenting antioxidant defence and inhibiting microbial proliferation. Nano-reinforced formulations enhance barrier efficacy and regulate the release of active ingredients, hence prolonging shelf life. Nonetheless, challenges pertaining to standardisation, safety certification and industrial scalability persist as significant limitations.