STUDY ON THE PRODUCTION OF 90% DEACETYLATED CHITOSAN MEMBRANES COMBINED WITH LAURIC ACID AND THEIR APPLICATION IN AVOCADO (Persea americana MILL.) PRESERVATION

Abstract

Chitosan, a type of polysaccharide, is recognized as a non-toxic, biodegradable, biocompatible, and environmentally friendly material. Incorporating a small amount of Lauric Acid into chitosan films aims to enhance their antibacterial capability compared to pure chitosan films. The purpose of this study is to explore the potential application of 90% deacetylated chitosan films combined with Lauric Acid for the preservation of waxy avocados. Lauric Acid at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 0.3% (addition rate from 0% to 8%) will be added to a 1% Chitosan solution at pH 3.8. The films will be subjected to mechanical property measurements. The preservation of waxy avocados will be conducted using the following samples: unwrapped, chitosan-wrapped, chitosan-Lauric Acid-wrapped, chitosan-dipped, chitosan-Lauric Acid-dipped (all samples will be rinsed with warm water at 50°C before preservation). Research findings indicate that 90% deacetylated chitosan films at a 1% concentration combined with 0.15% Lauric Acid (addition rate of 4%) significantly impact slowing the deterioration process, maintaining fruit color, and extending the preservation period of avocados up to 14 days. This study provides valuable insights into the application of chitosan-Lauric Acid films for the preservation of waxy avocados.