UTILIZAÇÃO DE BIOFILMES NA CONSERVAÇÃO PÓS-COLHEITA DO ABACAXI (Ananas comosus): UMA REVISÃO DE LITERATURA

Abstract

The post-harvest conservation of pineapples is a challenge due to their high perishability, which occurs rapidly after harvesting. In this context, the use of biofilms emerges as a promising solution, offering a sustainable and effective approach to prolong the shelf life of the fruit. Thus, the objective of this study was to conduct a literature review on the use of biofilms in the post-harvest conservation of pineapples. The methodology consisted of a literature review conducted in databases such as Google Scholar, Google, and SciELO, using terms related to pineapples, biofilms, and aspects of production and marketing. Publications from 1960 to 2023 available in Portuguese or English were included. The qualitative analysis aimed to identify the types of biofilms, their effects on the conservation of pineapples, and their economic and environmental implications. Recent studies demonstrate that chitosan-based biofilms, a natural biopolymer, have shown effectiveness in conserving pineapples by preventing the loss of freshness and improving the durability of the fruit. These biofilms not only prolong the shelf life of the product but also maintain its organoleptic qualities without compromising its taste or appearance. Another significant benefit of using biofilms is their sustainability. Unlike conventional plastic packaging, biofilms are biodegradable, representing an ecological alternative for the food industry. This aspect aligns with the growing demands for more environmentally responsible solutions, contributing to the reduction of the environmental impact generated by the excessive use of plastics. In the future, the development of new biopolymers and their combination with other technologies may further enhance the efficacy of biofilms in food conservation. Therefore, the use of biofilms in pineapple conservation is a promising alternative to increase its shelf life and reduce environmental impacts, serving as a sustainable and effective solution for the food industry.