Carboxymethyl chitosan-based coatings loaded with glutathione extend the shelf-life of harvested enoki mushrooms (Flammulina velutipes)

Carboxymethyl chitosan has anti-bacterial activity and good coating forming ability, and glutathione has anti-oxidant and browning-inhibiting capacity. This study investigated the effects of carboxymethyl chitosan-based coatings alone (1% carboxymethyl chitosan) or loaded with glutathione (1% carboxymethyl chitosan + 0.2% glutathione) on the refrigeration of harvested enoki mushrooms (Flammulina velutipes) for preservation. Compared with the control group, all the treated samples exhibited decreased total viable count, respiratory rate, weight loss and browning degree and increased soluble solid content and sensory overall likeness after 12 days of refrigeration (P < 0.05). Additionally, carboxymethyl chitosan-based coatings incorporated with glutathione were more efficient for the preservation of enoki mushrooms than carboxymethyl chitosan-based coatings alone. Therefore, treatment with carboxymethyl chitosan-based coatings could be a promising preservation method for harvested enoki mushrooms.

Automated summary

This study investigated the effects of carboxymethyl chitosan-based coatings alone or loaded with glutathione on the refrigeration of harvested enoki mushrooms for preservation. The results showed that both types of coatings were effective in reducing microbial growth and browning, and improving the overall quality of the mushrooms during refrigeration. Coatings with glutathione exhibited better preservation effects compared to those without glutathione.