Nano selenium–alginate edible coating extends hydroponic strawberry shelf life and provides selenium fortification as a micro-nutrient

Although selenium nanoparticles (Nano Se) have gained attention for their anti-cancer and antioxidant activity, this nanomaterial's antimicrobial activity also has great potential. The aim of study was to synthesize Nano Se edible coating solution through gamma irradiation technique with a bio-stabilizer sodium alginate (Na-alg.), which is an ingredient commonly used in food preservation. Dynamic light scattering transmission electron microscopy identified 94-nm-diameter Se, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy Raman confirmed the formation Se. Antifungal studies revealed that Na-alg./Nano well inhibited both Neopestalotiopsis rosae Fusarium oxysporum single species culture conditions. effectiveness coatings containing Na-alg. on physicochemical properties strawberries at 24 ± 2 °C during 5-day storage period evaluated. results showed coated enhanced firmness by as much 26% significantly less weight loss three fold compared control. application effective maintaining natural appearance preserving half amounts vitamin C B9 strawberries. In addition, utilized additive increase nutrient content supplemented from 0.28 0.56 μg per 100 g FW after coating. This may potentially be bio-preservation Se-enrichment various fresh fruits other foods.