Cellulose Nanofibers Prove Useful for Agricultural Applications in Fruits

John Simonsen and colleagues' study published in Scientia Horticulturae, on the development and validation of cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) as a coating to reduce the cracking of cherry fruits after rain.

The CNF-based hydrophobic coating (Innofresh™) provided high wettability and elasticity along with superior water resistance. Field studies in Chile and the United States found that applications of Innofresh™ to fruit orchards significantly reduced cherry rain-cracking with no detrimental effects on fruit firmness, size, sugar content, or color. The technology holds promise for protecting produce and keeping it fresh longer, which may help to reduce food waste and spoilage.