This study presents the development and evaluation of active edible films and coatings based on apple pectin enriched with γ-decalactone (GDL), a natural aroma compound with antimicrobial properties. Formulations were prepared using a 5% pectin solution with 30% glycerol as a plasticizer and GDL at concentrations of 2.5%, 5%, and 10%. The films were characterized in terms of microstructure, optical properties (increase in opacity from 1.10 to 8.64 a.u./mm), mechanical strength (decrease from 13.84 to 5.68 MPa), gas and water vapor permeability (decrease in sorption from 1.45 to 0.80 g/g dry matter), UV-visible light barrier properties, and antimicrobial activity. FTIR analysis confirmed interactions between GDL and the polymer matrix. GDL addition significantly increased film porosity and enhanced bioactivity — 5% GDL completely inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis and Yarrowia lipolytica, and reduced Monilinia fructicola development by 70%.
In the application part, the effect of the coatings on the quality of strawberries stored for 9 days under refrigerated conditions was assessed. The coatings reduced weight loss and firmness degradation, and slowed spoilage — only 14.29% of fruit showed decay compared to 57.14% in control samples. Despite accelerated softening, the coatings stabilized pH, color, and soluble solids content. PCA analysis confirmed the impact of coatings on the quality variability of strawberries during storage. These results indicate the potential of GDL as a component of active edible coatings and justify further research on the optimization of its controlled release in biodegradable packaging systems for perishable products.