The development of vitamin C deep eutectic agent modified chitosan composite (Vc-DEA/Ch) as sustainable edible coating for the enhancement of postharvest quality of cherry tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes, valued as both fruit and vegetable (F&V), are prone to postharvest decay, leading to nutritional and economic losses. While chitosan-based preservation often involves complex designs, this study developed a simplified yet multifunctional edible alternative. A vitamin C deep eutectic agent (Vc-DEA) was synthesized and incorporated into chitosan (Ch) matrix as both plasticizer and antioxidant. The resulting Vc-DEA/Ch composite showed strong UV-blocking (300–380 nm) and concentration-dependent bioactivity, including notable antibacterial effects against Escherichia coli ( E. coli ) and the strongest antioxidant capacity in 80% variant (IC 50 values of 0.17 and 0.15 mg/mL for DPPH and ABTS, respectively). The 40% Vc-DEA saturated the chitosan matrix and co-formed a novel interpenetrating polymer network, yielding a morphologically uniform surface with modulated roughness (SEM), enhanced thermal stability (100–200 °C) (TGA), optimal mechanical property, and the most effective water vapor barrier. In a six-day ambient storage test on cherry tomatoes, the 40% Vc-DEA/Ch coating most effectively maintained firmness, modulated ripening through regulated lycopene synthesis, preserved nutritional quality (highest Vc content), and improved flavor, thereby enhancing marketability. This work establishes the 40% Vc-DEA/Ch composite as a sustainable and effective edible coating, offering a potential practical strategy to reduce postharvest decay in perishable produce. 40% Vc-DEA/Ch composite was developed as a sustainable and effective edible coating for cherry tomato preservation, offering a potential strategy to mitigate postharvest decay in perishable F&V. • Sustainable Vc-DEA/Ch composites for postharvest use. • 40% composite forms optimal network with enhanced barrier. • Strong UV-shielding, antioxidant, and synergistic anti-E. coli activity • 60/80% loadings cause phase separation and degrade key properties • 40% coating best delays senescence and maintains quality in cherry tomatoes