Application of Cassava Starch Coating Prepared with Stevia Leaf-washing Water for Increasing the Postharvest Life of Strawberries

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of cassava starch coating enriched or not with bioactive compounds from stevia leaf-washing water on the physical and chemical characteristics of strawberries during storage at refrigerated (4oC) or room (25oC) temperatures. The cassava starch coating was effective in increasing the postharvest life of strawberries and reduce the ripening process (decreased mass loss and maintenance of the texture, total soluble solids and color parameters). The presence of bioactive compounds from stevia leaf-washing water enhanced the coating effect, resulting in products with lower mass loss and TSS values, and higher pH. The refrigerated temperature was more effective in the maintenance of the strawberry’s characteristics during storage.