| Abstract: | High‐oleic soybean oil is chemically functionalized in order to mimic the structure and physical properties of hydrogenated castor oil (HCO). The resulting wax‐like material is evaluated for use as an alternative to other commercial wax coatings for the postharvest treatment of fresh citrus fruit. The racemic nature of the material inhibits ordered crystalline arrangement and negatively affects its relative crystallinity (17.7%), hardness (0.59 ± 0.04 mm?1), and melting profile (44–46 °C), with respect to HCO oil (37.7%, 5.33 ± 0.01 mm?1, 83–87 °C). Nevertheless, compounding the new material with carnauba wax (CAR) imparts a very attractive gloss and prevents moisture loss significantly better than polyethylene, shellac, and CAR‐based coatings. Compounding the hydroxy‐functionalized high‐oleic soybean wax may potentially reduce dependence on imported CAR and other ingredients used in citrus coating emulsion formulations. Practical Applications: The soybean oil‐derived material described in this contribution provides two key performance characteristics desired by citrus growers and packing houses: an efficient barrier to moisture loss and an attractive shine. The synthesis of the hydroxy‐wax is facile and mild, and the materials can be readily formulated into emulsions as required for fruit coating applications. Use of the formulated coating can be extended to other agricultural commodities such as avocados, melons, and stone fruit. |
