A Multifunctional Bio-Based Bamboo Coating Integrating Nano-ZnO, Artemisia argyi, KMnO4, and Nano-CaCO3 for Long-Term Preservation of Climacteric and Non-Climacteric Fruits

Postharvest fruit losses are largely driven by a short shelf-life resulting from ethylene-induced ripening, microbial spoilage, and moisture loss. In this study, a multifunctional coating was fabricated on Moso bamboo substrates via a simple two-step process. The coating integrates superhydrophobic, ethylene-scavenging, and antibacterial functions, utilizing rosin, nano-ZnO, Artemisia argyi powder, nano-CaCO3, and KMnO4. The bamboo with this coating acts as an indirect preservation platform, regulating the storage microenvironment to reduce ethylene accumulation, microbial proliferation, and water loss. The system is cost-effective, biosafe, and scalable for practical use. Shelf-life tests demonstrated significant extension for both climacteric and nonclimacteric fruits: bananas (from 5 to 21 days, ≥200%), strawberries (1–2 to 5 days, ≥150%), blueberries (5–7 to 15 days, ≥114%), cherry tomatoes (4–7 to 14 days, ≥100%), and sweet cherries (5–7 to 14 days, ≥100%). The synergistic effect of ethylene adsorption, moisture barrier, and contact-plus vapor-phase antibacterial action contributes to the broad-spectrum efficacy of this approach. These findings support this coating as a promising passive packaging material for fresh produce preservation.