Application of natural antimicrobials in biodegradable coatings applied on banana slices

Abstract

The effect of antimicrobial agent (cinnamon essential oil 0.3% and 5% geranium leaf extract) on a biodegradable coating on the physicochemical characteristics, mold and yeast counts and general acceptability in banana slices was evaluated. Analysis of variance (ANVA) showed significant effect of antimicrobial agent and storage time on weight loss, firmness, color, mold and yeast counts. The Duncan test indicated that the coverage with geranium leaf extract showed the lowest weight loss and count of molds and yeasts, higher value of firmness and color. After applying the Kruskall-Wallis test, a significant effect of the antimicrobial agent and storage time was noted on general acceptability, and the Mann-Whitney test confirmed that the treatments with geranium leaf extract and control were the most accepted by the panelists. Therefore, the application of toppings incorporating natural plant extracts into minimally processed fruits may be a promising technology to help maintain or improve the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of whole or minimally processed products.