Characterisation and functionality of fructo-oligosaccharides affecting water status of strawberry fruit (Fragraria vesca cv. Mara de Bois) during postharvest storage

► FOS identification and quantification in organic strawberries by HPAEC-PAD. ► Thermodynamical properties of polymer furanose units. ► Enhanced FOS content in strawberries exposed to 20% CO2 treatment. ► Beneficial CO2 treatment restrained the decrease in unfreezable water content. ► Changes in water binding characteristics of strawberries with enhanced FOS levels.