Aimplas has made significant strides in combating citrus fruit spoilage by developing edible packaging coatings made from fruit pulp waste. These coatings help reduce fungal rot, contributing to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal “Zero Hunger.”

The research was conducted as part of the BiOrangePack project, aimed at enhancing the efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness of the organic citrus supply chain in the EU-Med area. By focusing on reducing post-farming fruit losses caused by fungal pathogens, Aimplas has garnered recognition for its contributions to the SDGs.

Irene Ríos, a food packaging researcher at Aimplas, emphasizes the importance of addressing the perishability of citrus fruits and overcoming the challenges of fungal rot. Together with partners in the BiOrangePack Project, efforts are underway to improve the post-harvest processing chain of organic citrus fruits.

The BiOrangePack project also aims to extend the shelf life of oranges and lemons by implementing a more efficient logistics system and using active and ecological packaging. With goals to reduce post-harvest rot loss and extend shelf life, Aimplas aims to make significant strides in reducing food waste and environmental impact.

In addition to combating food waste, Aimplas’ BiOrangePack project utilizes citrus pulp waste to develop active coatings against fungal rot. These coatings, applied as edible packaging or individual paper wrappers, offer environmental advantages over synthetic additives by using natural materials sourced from fruit pulp.

With participation from major citrus-producing countries in the Mediterranean region, including Italy, Spain, Turkey, Algeria, Tunisia, and France, the BiOrangePack project represents a collaborative effort to enhance sustainability and combat food waste.