Cannabidiol oil applied to strawberries can extend the berry’s shelf life, according to research published in ScienceDirect from University of South Florida scientists.
The oil, a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, has promising potential as an antimicrobial treatment for fresh produce, researchers found.
CBD oil was applied to fresh fruit after harvest followed by storage at 33.8 degrees Fahrenheit for eight days.
Strawberries were evaluated for visual quality and microbial load before and during storage.
“Results from this study showed that CBD oil was effective at maintaining the visual appearance of strawberries ... compared to fruit not treated,” according to the study.
In the study, the oil inhibited yeast and mold growth on strawberries.
The strawberries treated with CBD oil also had better overall quality compared to untreated fruit, according to the study.
