report
2.3.3.3.4 Edible Coatings

Edible coatings are used on several different foodstuffs, including fresh fruit and vegetables, and processed food. They are usually composed of lipids, carbohydrates or proteins and are designed to protect the food from environmental conditions such as oxidation, moisture, and handling. However, at present each material has its limitations. Nanostructured coatings in contrast could incorporate different food-grade additives in a matrix and be specifically designed to meet the conditions required. Such coatings could be engineered using conventional food coating processes (such as dipping or spraying) .