Title: Extending the Shelf Life of Tomatoes in Nigeria Using Edible Coatings from Locally Available Materials
Authors: Gbenizibe Bonus Wombu, Raymond Alex Alex Ekemube
Volume: 9
Issue: 6
Pages: 104-111
Publication Date: 2025/06/28
Abstract:
Postharvest losses of tomatoes in Nigeria are exceptionally high, with over 50% of the harvest lost to spoilage due to inadequate storage and handlingcanr.msu.edu. Edible coatings offer a promising, low-cost technology to extend tomato shelf life by creating a thin barrier against moisture loss and microbial attack. This article reviews the use of edible coatings derived from locally available Nigerian materials - cassava starch, aloe vera gel, and chitosan - to prolong tomato freshness. We assess recent studies in Nigeria and similar tropical contexts, highlighting that cassava starch-based composite coatings can delay ripening and quality degradation for up to four weeks researchgate.netresearchgate.net, aloe vera gel coatings can significantly reduce weight loss and decay over 3-4 weeks iiardjournals.org, and chitosan-based coatings (alone or in combination with starch) effectively curb microbial growth and nutrient loss for 12-14 days or more food.actapol.netfood.actapol.net. The technological feasibility of these biopolymer coatings in Nigeria is discussed in terms of material availability (e.g. Nigeria's abundant cassava supply), scalability for farmers and markets, and potential adoption challenges such as cost, awareness, and application methods. While laboratory results are encouraging - showing slower ripening, reduced spoilage, and extended shelf life - key gaps remain in scaling up these solutions. The review identifies the need for field trials, economic analyses, and farmer education to transition edible coating technology from research to practice in Nigeria's tomato value chain. In conclusion, edible coatings from cassava starch, aloe vera, and chitosan present an environmentally friendly strategy to reduce postharvest tomato losses in Nigeria, improving food security and farmers' incomes, but concerted efforts in research and extension are required to realize their full potential.