Improving the function of electrospun film by natural substance for active packaging application of fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are highly susceptible to spoilage, and effective postharvest packaging technology can significantly extend their shelf life of fruits and vegetables. Many studies have shown that the use of electrospinning to encapsulate natural bioactive compounds, including plant extracts, metals, and metal oxides, in active packaging can effectively extend the shelf life of postharvest fruits and vegetables. Electrospun films have the characteristics of a large specific surface area, high porosity, and non-thermal processing, which can effectively improve the encapsulation efficiency and slow-release performance of bioactive compounds. This paper reviews the research progress in electrospinning technology encapsulating natural bioactive compounds for postharvest packaging of fruits and vegetables, and the effect of functional electrospun submicro-fiber films on the postharvest storage quality of fruits and vegetables. Encapsulation of natural bioactive compounds into electrospun submicro-fibers film can improve the function of film, including antibacterial property, antioxidant property and ethylene absorption property. These effects include (1) control of softening, (2) inhibition of fruit browning and enhancement of antioxidant capacity, (3) ethylene degradation, (4) reduction of corruption, and (5) regulation of sugars and acids. This review provides deep insights into the current limitations and future prospects of electrospinning technology in the field of active fruit packaging.