A novel source of food hydrocolloids from Trigonella elliptica seeds: extraction of mucilage and comprehensive characterization

Fenugreek seed mucilage-based active edible films for extending fresh fruit shelf life: Antimicrobial and physicochemical properties

Trigonella foenum-graecum, known as fenugreek, belongs to the leguminous family of wild growth in Western Asia, Europe, the Mediterranean, and Asia; its ripe seeds contain a pool of bioactive substances with great potential in the food industry and medicine. In this study, fenugreek seed mucilage (FSM) was extracted and characterized in its structural properties by X-ray diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance, and high-performance liquid chromatography. Then, the applicability of FSM as an antimicrobial agent was demonstrated via the development of novel, active, edible FSM-based biofilms containing carboxymethyl cellulose and rosemary essential oil (REO). Incorporating REO in the biofilms brought about specific changes in Fourier-transform infrared spectra, affecting thermal degradation behavior. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy morphography showed an even distribution of REO and smoother surfaces in the loaded films. Besides, the solubility tests evidenced a reduction in water solubility with increasing REO concentration from 1 to 3 wt%. The biological assay evidenced the antimicrobial activity of REO-loaded biofilms against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Finally, whole apples were dip-coated with FSM-based solutions to showcase future edible systems. The REO-loaded biofilms extended the shelf life of apples to 30 days, demonstrating their potential for sustainable and active coatings.

Opopanax gum and essential oil-based antimicrobial film reinforced with bismuth oxide nanoparticles: Production, characterization, and application in the storage of quail fillets

The aim of this study was to the production of an active film based on Prangos ferulacea root gum, using its leaf's essential oil (PFEO) (0-3 %) and bismuth oxide nanoparticles (Bi₂O₃NPs) (0-3 %). Then, the developed film was used for packaging of quail fillet. Response surface methodology was used to evaluate the effect of PFEO and Bi₂O₃NPs on films' properties. Optimum formulation, including 1.5 % PFEO and 1 % Bi₂O₃NPs, was achieved based on numerical optimization. The optimum film was produced and compared with the control film (based on Prangos ferulacea root gum, without PFEO and Bi₂O₃NPs). According to the results, adding PFEO and Bi₂O₃NPs to the film formulation increased the thickness and antioxidant activity of the film and decreased moisture content, solubility, water vapor permeability, and whiteness index (p < 0.05). The optimum film indicated high antimicrobial effects on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The pH, TVBN, TBA values, coliform, and total bacterial counts of quail fillet packed with the optimum film were lower and sensorial scores were higher than the control samples during the storage(p < 0.05).