Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Research Project

Degree Name

Grade 12

Keywords

Oyster Shells, Chitosan

Abstract

Tomatoes are one of the most abundant crops in the Philippines, yet their susceptibility to spoilage poses a threat to post-harvest management. The preservation of this crop proves to be essential to extend its shelf life, maintaining the quality of this crop over longer periods of time. Other than tomato waste and spoilage, substantial oyster shell waste was also found in the country, contributing to water and marine pollution. This study investigates the effectiveness of chitosan extracted from oyster (Magallana bilineata) shells as a natural preservative coating for market-bought tomatoes to not only extend the shelf life of tomatoes but also provide a sustainable use for these non biodegradable shells. Pink-stage tomatoes were selected and coated with varying concentrations of chitosan solutions (0.5%, 0.75%, 1.3%, 2.0%, and 2.5%), alongside control groups treated with sodium benzoate (positive control) and distilled water (negative control). The samples were monitored over a 13-day period to assess the impact of the coatings on the shelf life and quality of the tomatoes in terms of weight loss, pH level, and titratable acidity. The study found that chitosan treatment was not effective in preserving the tomato samples in terms of weight loss but in terms of pH level and titratable acidity, higher concentrations, specifically 2.0% and 2.5%, was effective in extending the shelf life of the samples. Despite challenges and difficulties faced by the researchers, chitosan has proved its limited potential for commercial use to preserve and lengthen the shelf life of tomatoes.

First Advisor

Ramgie M. Bartolata, LPT

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