Improved postharvest quality in patagonian squash (Cucurbita moschata) coated with radiation depolymerized chitosan

► Original Chitosan was radiation depolymerized producing chitosans with lower molecular weights. ► Gamma-irradiated chitosans only exhibit chain scission. ► SEC-MALLS-RI chromatography is a useful tool in molecular weight analysis. ► Depolymerized chitosans were the best in maintaining the quality and the storage life of coated squashes.