<p>Postharvest losses of fruit present considerable challenges to food security, as traditional preservation techniques such as chemical fungicides and synthetic packaging raise issues regarding food safety and environmental effects. In light of consumer preferences for chemical-free products and strict international regulations concerning pesticide residues, researchers have explored biopolymer-based edible coatings as a sustainable alternative. These cutting-edge coatings, which are made from polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids, act as semi-permeable barriers that manage gas exchange, moisture movement, and solute transfer, while also functioning as delivery systems for active compounds. Recent advancements in technology have improved their performance through the nano-encapsulation of antimicrobials, optimization of composite matrices, and precise application techniques. This review provides a critical analysis of the current research on the effectiveness of biopolymer-based edible coatings, assessing their ability to maintain fruit quality attributes and prolong shelf life, while also emphasizing emerging technologies and future prospects in this area.</p> Graphical abstract <p>Generalized representation of technological advancements in biopolymer-based edible coatings for fruit preservation and storage</p> <p></p>