Application of Propolis Extract in Gelatin Coatings as Environmentally Friendly Method for Extending the Shelf Life of Pork Loin

This study evaluates the effects of gelatin coating enriched with ethanolic propolis extract (PE) at 1%, 2% or 3% (w/v) on the quality parameters of pork meat during storage at 2 °C. Physical (pH, weight loss, color) and chemical parameters (percentage contents of metmyoglobin (MetMb), along with thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)) were measured, and microbiological (total aerobic plate count (TAPC)) analysis, as well as consumer evaluation, was carried out every four days during the storage period of twelve days. The results indicated that the proposed treatments affected (p < 0.05) the quality characteristics of meat samples. The high prevention of physicochemical alterations and maximum inhibition of microorganisms was obtained for samples stored in gelatin coatings containing 2% and 3% PE. Additionally, despite a slight deterioration in odor on Day 4 in the P3 group, no negative changes in overall acceptability of the P2 and P3 groups compared to uncoated samples were observed. The obtained results indicate a significant role of propolis extract incorporation into gelatin packaging to extend the shelf life of stored pork.