Evaluation of waxes to replace polyethylene waxes.
Kritzinger M., Kruger F. J., Bezuidenhout M.
Author Affiliation: Institute for Tropical and Subtropical Crops, Private Bag X11208, Nelspruit 1200, South Africa.
Yearbook - South African Mango Growers' Association 17 : 111-114
Abstract : In order to identify a suitable natural wax to replace polyethylene wax, the Institute for Tropical and Subtropical Crops is in the process of evaluating alternative fruit coatings. Three coatings (Stafresh and Tropical Fruit Coating, primarily composed Carnauba (natural wax) and an experimental mineral-based coating, distributed by Avima) were selected for evaluation during the 1996-97 mango season. TAG wax was used as a polyethylene control while the possibility of exporting unwaxed fruits was also investigated. Mango cv. Heidi fruits were used in the investigation. Fruits were treated and stored under simulated export conditions and a range of physiological and pathological parameters were used to evaluate fruit quality. The results indicated that South African mango producers should not export fruits without an appropriate coating. Of the coatings evaluated, the experimental mineral-based formulation rendered results that were most comparable with those attained with TAG. It is doubtful whether importers will accept this new coating. Of the other natural waxes, Stafresh achieved the best results.