New Delhi (ABC Live): Fruit spoilage causes a large part of global food waste. While traditional packaging uses synthetic plastics, these materials do not fully stop spoilage and harm the environment. In contrast, amyloid-like protein coatings offer an edible, biodegradable, and eco-friendly option to keep fruits fresh for longer. This report explains what these coatings
New Delhi (ABC Live): Fruit spoilage causes a large part of global food waste. While traditional packaging uses synthetic plastics, these materials do not fully stop spoilage and harm the environment. In contrast, amyloid-like protein coatings offer an edible, biodegradable, and eco-friendly option to keep fruits fresh for longer. This report explains what these coatings are, how they work, their benefits and challenges, and their legal importance.
What Are Amyloid-like Proteins?
Amyloid-like proteins are tiny fibres that form a highly organised structure similar to harmful amyloids but without the harmful effects. Specifically, they come from safe, food-grade proteins like whey, soy, peas, or silk. Because of their unique properties, these proteins can create thin, breathable, and clear coatings that are perfect for fruits.
How Are the Coatings Made?
The process includes four main steps:
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Protein Selection: First, proteins are chosen from whey, soy, or legumes.
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Fibrillation: Then, heat and acid are applied to unfold the proteins and expose water-repelling parts.
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Self-Assembly: Next, the proteins naturally link to form tiny fibres called fibrils.
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Film Formation: Finally, the fibrils are mixed in liquid and sprayed or dipped onto fruit, forming a thin, even coating.
This coating slows down fruit spoilage by blocking oxygen, reducing moisture loss, and stopping microbes.
Key Benefits for Fruit Preservation
These coatings have several important functions:
| Property | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Gas Barrier | Slows down ripening triggered by ethylene gas |
| Moisture Barrier | Prevents drying out and wrinkling |
| Edible | Safe to eat with the fruit |
| Transparent | Keeps the fruit’s natural look |
| Antimicrobial Additives | Can stop harmful microbes when added |
Environmental Advantages
Amyloid coatings also help protect the environment by:
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Replacing plastic wraps with materials that break down naturally.
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Cutting food loss, especially where refrigeration is limited.
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Using leftover proteins from farming supports waste reuse.
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Lowering carbon emissions compared to plastic packaging.
For example, studies from IISc Bengaluru have shown that these coatings can double how long bananas, mangoes, and avocados stay fresh at room temperature.
Where Are These Coatings Used?
They are especially helpful in:
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Retail stores, where they reduce wasted fruit.
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Exporters who need to keep fruit fresh during shipping.
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Farmer groups, allowing affordable on-site coating.
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Consumers who prefer plastic-free fruit.
Challenges to Overcome
Despite their promise, some issues remain:
| Challenge | Effect |
|---|---|
| Scaling Production | Making large amounts of fibrils is still new. |
| Regulations | Approval is required from food safety authorities. |
| Cost | They are currently more expensive than plastic options. |
| Environmental Factors | Effectiveness varies depending on temperature and humidity. |
Future Developments
Looking ahead, we expect:
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“Smart” coatings that release preservatives only when spoilage starts.
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Better production methods to lower costs significantly.
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Government policies encourage green packaging adoption.
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Using blockchain to track fruit freshness and supply chain details.
Legal and Regulatory Context
In India, laws increasingly support biodegradable and safe packaging:
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Plastic Waste Management Rules (2016, updated 2022): These rules promote banning single-use plastics.
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FSSAI Packaging Regulations (2018): These regulations require food-safe, non-toxic packaging materials.
Important Case Law
Moreover, the Supreme Court’s decision in Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action v. Union of India (1996) enforces the “Polluter Pays Principle.” It makes industries and the government responsible for using environmentally friendly methods. This ruling strengthens the case for new packaging ideas like amyloid coatings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, amyloid-like protein coatings combine food science with environmental care. Supported by research, regulations, and legal principles, they provide a real option to reduce food waste and plastic use. With continued improvements and policy support, these coatings can become a common method to keep fruits fresh worldwide.
