Findings from the present study demonstrate that alginate coatings
with CBO can be used to preserve the microbiological safety and quality
of whole cantaloupes. By incorporating 0.5% SBO in the coating
treatment with 2.0% CBO, inactivation to the limit of detection of the
foodborne pathogens S. enterica, E. coli O157:H7 and L. monocytogenes
was achieved during ambient storage for 15 days. This coating formulation was
also most effective in inhibiting the growth of native yeasts and
molds on cantaloupes and delaying color change and softening of cantaloupes
during storage.