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Humidity control in fruits and vegetables packaging using bilayer asymmetric films for reduced postharvest losses.

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Title: Humidity control in fruits and vegetables packaging using bilayer asymmetric films for reduced postharvest losses.
Authors: Dong, Hao1,2 (AUTHOR), Tong, Liping1,2 (AUTHOR) tongliping@sdau.edu.cn, Hou, Shifeng1,2,3 (AUTHOR) hou@sdau.edu.cn
Source: Trends in Food Science & Technology. Dec2025, Vol. 166, pN.PAG-N.PAG. 1p.
Subjects: Humidity control, Postharvest losses of crops, Humidity, Multilayered thin films, Packaging, Nanocomposite materials, Smart materials, Vegetables
Abstract: Controlling relative humidity (RH) is crucial for preserving the quality and shelf life of fruits and vegetables (F&V) by minimising moisture loss, a primary cause of spoilage. The regulation of RH remains a considerable challenge in the preservation of F&V. Although high RH can inhibit water migration and reduce losses, it also poses risks of condensation and physiological disorders. This review examines strategies for humidity control in film packaging. Specifically, it explores the use of nanofillers to optimise film structure and decrease water vapour transmission rate, thereby sustaining high RH within the packaging. The integration of autonomous humidity-control materials that dynamically regulate humidity through reversible adsorption and desorption processes is also discussed. Metal–organic frameworks demonstrate potential for precise humidity control owing to their customisable pore structures and S-type adsorption isotherms. The asymmetric film design, characterised by a hydrophobic outer layer to obstruct water vapour and a hydrophilic inner layer to regulate humidity, effectively balances the requirements for humidity control and anti-condensation. Currently, this technology faces challenges related to precision, multifunctional integration and sustainability. Future research should concentrate on (1) developing temperature- and humidity-responsive materials for the real-time dynamic regulation of RH, (2) optimising the processability and environmental benefits of these materials and (3) integrating Internet of Things sensors and air conditioning systems to construct digital preservation models. This review offers theoretical and technological pathways for the advancement of intelligent humidity-regulated cling film for F&V, which is crucial for reducing post-harvest losses. [Display omitted] • Examines key challenges in regulating humidity for preserving produce. • Reviews nanomaterials that boost moisture resistance. • Outlines smart humidity control materials and their working principles. • Details asymmetric/gradient structure design for humidity regulation in thin films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Engineering Source
Description
Abstract:Controlling relative humidity (RH) is crucial for preserving the quality and shelf life of fruits and vegetables (F&V) by minimising moisture loss, a primary cause of spoilage. The regulation of RH remains a considerable challenge in the preservation of F&V. Although high RH can inhibit water migration and reduce losses, it also poses risks of condensation and physiological disorders. This review examines strategies for humidity control in film packaging. Specifically, it explores the use of nanofillers to optimise film structure and decrease water vapour transmission rate, thereby sustaining high RH within the packaging. The integration of autonomous humidity-control materials that dynamically regulate humidity through reversible adsorption and desorption processes is also discussed. Metal–organic frameworks demonstrate potential for precise humidity control owing to their customisable pore structures and S-type adsorption isotherms. The asymmetric film design, characterised by a hydrophobic outer layer to obstruct water vapour and a hydrophilic inner layer to regulate humidity, effectively balances the requirements for humidity control and anti-condensation. Currently, this technology faces challenges related to precision, multifunctional integration and sustainability. Future research should concentrate on (1) developing temperature- and humidity-responsive materials for the real-time dynamic regulation of RH, (2) optimising the processability and environmental benefits of these materials and (3) integrating Internet of Things sensors and air conditioning systems to construct digital preservation models. This review offers theoretical and technological pathways for the advancement of intelligent humidity-regulated cling film for F&V, which is crucial for reducing post-harvest losses. [Display omitted] • Examines key challenges in regulating humidity for preserving produce. • Reviews nanomaterials that boost moisture resistance. • Outlines smart humidity control materials and their working principles. • Details asymmetric/gradient structure design for humidity regulation in thin films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:09242244
DOI:10.1016/j.tifs.2025.105394