Effect of Active Films Based on Chestnut Shell on the Shelf Life of Strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch. cv. Camarosa)

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of active films based on chestnut shell (CS) on the shelf life of strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch. cv. Camarosa). Active films were developed using polylactic acid (PLA) combined with CS powder and alginate combined with CS extract and compared with a commercial plastic film. After 14 days of refrigerated storage, no significant differences were found between strawberries stored in active and commercial films in terms of physicochemical properties, including weight loss, total phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity (DPPH), and vitamin C content. These findings indicate that strawberries stored in active films effectively maintained their physicochemical and sensory quality. Sensory evaluation results also demonstrated good consumer acceptability for strawberries stored in active films, comparable to those stored in commercial plastic film. In conclusion, the results support the potential of active films based on chestnut shell as a viable alternative to conventional plastic packaging for strawberry preservation.