Core Insights - A new edible protein-based coating developed by a research team at Shaanxi Normal University significantly extends the shelf life of fruits, reducing food waste and supply chain losses [1][5][6] Group 1: Coating Development - The coating, named ALP, can extend the shelf life of whole fruits at room temperature by 2 to 5 times, and fresh-cut fruits can last up to 10 days under refrigeration [1][5] - The coating is made from a synthetic protein amyloid aggregate that adheres strongly to fruit surfaces, blocking oxygen and slowing down the fruit's metabolism while retaining moisture [3][4] Group 2: Performance and Testing - Comprehensive tests on 17 types of common fruits showed that the ALP coating significantly improves preservation, with strawberries lasting 10 days at 23°C compared to just 2 days without the coating [5][6] - Even under high temperatures, the ALP coating maintains its effectiveness, extending the shelf life of mangoes and strawberries by several days [6] Group 3: Environmental and Economic Impact - The ALP coating is made from entirely natural and edible materials, ensuring safety for human consumption and environmental sustainability [6] - The cost of preserving fruits with the ALP coating is estimated at only 0.65 yuan per kilogram, with potential for further cost reductions as production scales up [6]