Edible Coating, Packaging, and Quality Characteristics of Jaggery

Jaggery, revered as "gur" in North India and "panela" in Latin America, is a time-honored sweetener derived from sugarcane juice, cherished for its rich nutritional profile and eco-friendly production. Unlike refined sugar, jaggery retains an abundance of minerals, vitamins, and proteins, earning its place in Ayurveda as a "medicinal sugar" that promotes digestion and nourishes health. Widely used in culinary and pharmaceutical applications across states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and West Bengal, jaggery's appeal is undeniable, yet its storage presents significant challenges. These flavorless, flexible films, combined with cost-effective polyethylene or vacuum packaging, can curb moisture absorption, extend shelf life, and preserve quality. This book explores the transformative potential of WPC-based edible coatings and innovative packaging techniques to enhance the shelf-life characteristics of jaggery, empowering farmers to store their produce effectively and secure better market prices. Through rigorous study and practical application, we aim to address the preservation challenges of this wholesome sweetener, ensuring its enduring value in diets and economies worldwide.