Evaluation of the effect of natural and nanoemulsified essential oils from citrus fruits (Citrus latifolia) on the shelf life of avocados (Persea americana)

Authors

  • Keren Eversly Universidad Especializada de las Américas
  • Maira Diaz Universidad Especializada de las Américas
  • Kimberly Castro Universidad Especializada de las Américas
  • Jay Molino Universidad Especializada de las Américas
  • Ana Luisa Garcia Universidad Especializada de las Américas
  • Lurys Martinez Universidad Especializada de las Américas

Keywords:

steam dragging, total coliforms, fruit firmness, yeasts, nanoemulsion, shelf life

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of natural and nanoemulsified essential oils from citrus fruits (Citrus latifolia) on the shelf life of avocados (Persea americana). Post-harvest treatments were applied using pure essential oil and nanoemulsions formulated at 4% and 8% essential oil concentration. The results showed that nanoemulsion treatments significantly reduced firmness loss, lowered weight loss, and inhibited microbial growth. Shelf life was extended from 8 days to approximately 10–12 days. These findings suggest that nanoemulsified essential oil coatings are a natural and effective alternative for extending avocado shelf life.

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Published

2026-01-01

How to Cite

Eversly, K., Diaz, M., Castro, K., Molino, J., Garcia, A. L., & Martinez, L. (2026). Evaluation of the effect of natural and nanoemulsified essential oils from citrus fruits (Citrus latifolia) on the shelf life of avocados (Persea americana). REDES, 1(1), 221–239. Retrieved from https://revistas.udelas.ac.pa/index.php/redes/article/view/318