Humans have been searching for ways to maintain the freshness of their food for millennia using all manner of methods.
Now, a study published this month in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces suggests that cannabidiol (CBD), an active ingredient in cannabis derived from the hemp plant with no psychoactive value, might be a powerful tool in extending the freshness of certain foods, particularly strawberries.
But first things first, why does food deteriorate?
The main factors determining the breakdown of food are its chemical, physical and microbiological alterations, or normal life processes.
The Study
A team of Thai researchers found that CBD produces antioxidant and antibacterial effects, though the investigation is still in its early stage.
The objective of the research was to create encapsulated cannabidiol isolate, eCBDi, and assess the impact of its edible active coatings on the physical and chemical characteristics of strawberries.
Scientists at Thammasat University and Chulabhorn Research Institute in Thailand sought to determine if coating with CBD and sodium alginate could be used after harvesting to enhance antioxidant and antimicrobial activity and extend the shelf life of the strawberries.
Researchers observed a delayed deterioration after examining the strawberries for their visual appearance and quality parameters.
“In the results, a significantly delayed deterioration was observed in terms of weight loss, total acidity, pH, microbial activity, and antioxidant activity for coated strawberries compared to the control. This study demonstrates the capability of eCBDi nanoparticles as an efficient active food coating agent,” the abstract noted.
Source: Jelena Martinovic – benzinga.com
