Research Projects

This proposal focuses on shelf-life enhancement and storing facilities of Khasi mandarin fruit, which has specific GI tag in the North Eastern. Around 30% of harvests are lost every year due to microbial infections during transit, storage and marketing. Therefore, the proposed research aims to following approaches:(i) Development of targeted nontoxic, antifungal nanocoatings in combination with natural bioactive components for enhancing the shelf-life. (ii) To develop compostable cost-effective secondary packaging with improved shelf life for storage and transportation.(iii) commercialization of Khasi Mandarin targeted nanocoating along with compostable packaging trays on the basis of market dynamics and consumer preferences. (iv) To develop the storage and de-greening protocols in order to address glut affecting price variations and to gain early entry in market for better return.

The selected Essential oils (Clove, Lemongrass (L.G), Jasmine, Rose, Neem Castor, Clove+LG, Clove+Rose, LG+Jasmine, Rose+Jasmine) were used for the preparation of the nanoemulsion at 1000 ppm concentration. The prepared nano-emulsions were applied to citrus fruits by hand-coating, dipping, and spraying methods, and the sample fruits were in a controlled environment for 21 days. Physical, and biochemical parameters (pH. Decay %, Weight loss, Titratable Acidity, Respiration rate, Total Phenolic Content, and Total Flavonoid Content) were recorded on the 1st day, 3rd day, 7th day, 14th day, and 21st day. Out of all the coating formulations, the nano-emulsion based on clove E.O. had the most significant impact on regulating the physical and biochemical parameters (Weight loss, Decay%, pH, Titra