Effects of cellulose nanofibrils treatment on antioxidant properties and aroma of fresh-cut apples

Horticultural products tend to deteriorate during postharvest storage and processing. In this study, cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) were prepared from wood to investigate the effects of CNF treatment on the storage quality, aroma composition, and antioxidant system of fresh-cut apple (Malus domestica) wedges. Compared with control treatment, CNF coating treatment significantly improved the appearance of apple wedges; reduced the decay rate of apple wedges; and delayed the decline in weight loss, firmness, and titratable acid during storage. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry showed that CNF treatment could maintain the aroma components of apple wedges (stored for 4 days). Further investigations showed that CNF treatment increased the antioxidant system level and decreased reactive oxygen species content and membrane lipid peroxidation level of apple wedges. Overall, this study showed that CNF coating could effectively maintain the quality of fresh-cut apples during cold storage.

Automated summary

In this study, cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) were prepared from wood and used to treat fresh-cut apple wedges. The CNF treatment significantly improved the appearance, reduced the decay rate, and delayed the deterioration of apple wedges during storage. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis showed that CNF treatment maintained the aroma components of apple wedges. Further investigations revealed that CNF treatment enhanced the antioxidant system and reduced oxidative damage in apple wedges. Overall, CNF coating effectively maintained the quality of fresh-cut apples during cold storage.