Spanish oil and energy company Repsol has developed a range of “active” coatings that it believes will improve the transportation of perishable foods, including fruits and vegetables.
Repsol claimed the treatment, based on paraffin additives with “active substances”, including natural essential oils, would be able to extend the quality and condition of food during transportation and storage, as well as reducing potential losses.
In a statement, the oil group, which operates in over 30 countries, said the new coatings could be applied on paper and cardboard, and would preserve the moisture barrier properties of traditional products for paper and cardboard coating.
Repsol claimed the treatments could protect food against the attack and proliferation of moulds and bacteria to extend conservation time and shelf-life, while helping reduce the use of chemical fungicides.
In additional, the company said the coatings could help delay the ageing process in fruits and vegetables, while improving brightness and freshness.
