Smart edible coating for fruit and vegetable preservation using agro-industrial byproducts and nanotechnology
A nanotechnology-based edible coating made from natural compounds extracted from agro-industrial waste that extends the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. The solution combines biopolymers with encapsulated antioxidant and antimicrobial bioactives to reduce post-harvest losses, support sustainability, and lower costs for international market access.
Overview
This solution offers a smart edible coating designed to preserve fruits and vegetables by extending shelf life, reducing post-harvest economic losses, and lowering the investment required to reach international markets. The coating is formulated using natural bioactive compounds and biopolymers recovered from agro-industrial byproducts, turning waste streams into value-added food protection materials. By replacing synthetic preservatives with bio-based alternatives, the technology supports sustainability across the agri-food system while reducing environmental impact.
Technical specifications
Core approach:
- Bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties are extracted from agro-industrial residues such as lignocellulosic materials, plants, micro and macro algae, and shrimp waste
- Natural biopolymers including cellulose, alginates, starch, chitosan, and fucoidan serve as the coating matrix
- Bioactives are encapsulated within biopolymer-based nanostructures to enable prolonged, controlled release
- Plasticizing agents and proteins are blended with biopolymers to optimize film flexibility and barrier performance
- Application methods include spraying and immersion for adaptability across different produce types
Key benefits:
- Physical barrier against gas and water vapor transfer
- Protection against oxidation, including UV- and oxygen-mediated degradation
- Antimicrobial defense against pathogenic microorganisms
- Replacement of synthetic chemical preservatives with natural alternatives
- Valorization of agro-industrial waste streams
Technology readiness level
The research group has validated the extraction, characterization, and application of bioactive compounds and biopolymers from diverse biological matrices. Ongoing work focuses on optimizing nanoencapsulation formulations, testing biopolymer-plasticizer-protein blends, and selecting target fruit and vegetable ranges to ensure uniform coating application and consistent protection performance. The technology is currently at the applied research and formulation optimization stage, advancing toward broader validation across multiple produce types.
About Tecnológico de Monterrey
Tecnológico de Monterrey is a leading private, multi-campus research university in Mexico, recognized for entrepreneurship and industry collaboration. Its Monterrey headquarters anchors an urban innovation district with open lab space, prototyping, and shared testing facilities that welcome corporate collaborators. An integrated health system supports clinical research and translation, while structured internships and challenge-driven partnerships connect companies with faculty and student talent year-round. Research is supported by competitive federal funding through Mexico’s national science and technology council, along with industry contracts and international sponsors. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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