Background and purpose: Mannoprotein in the cell wall of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a glycoprotein with antimicrobial and antitoxin effects. In this research antifungal properties of gelatin based edible coating containing Saccharomyces cerevisiae mannoprotein were tested against Aspergillus flavus growth and the inhibitory effect on pistachio kernel.

Materials and methods: Antifungal properties of gelatin based edible coating containing Saccharomyces cerevisiae mannoprotein against Aspergillus flavus (PTCC 5004) were evaluated employing Serial Dilution (in plate and tube), Agar-well diffusion methods and inhibitory effects in coating of the pistachio kernels.

Results: Gelatin-based coating containing mannoprotein showed to have inhibitory effects against Aspergillus flavus growth. MIC and MFC values for mannoprotein were 0.005 and 0.01 µg/ml, respectively.

Conclusion: The application of gelatin based edible coating containing mannan delayed and reduced Aspergillus flavus growth. In this regard, this active coating could be applied in preservation and storing of foods such as pistachio to reduce Aspergillus flavus growth and eventually diminution of aflatoxin.