High-Amylose Corn Starch/Konjac Glucomannan Composite Film: Reinforced by Incorporating β-Cyclodextrin

Effect of eucalyptus nanofibril as reinforcement in biodegradable thermoplastic films based on rice starch (Oryza sativa): Evaluation as primary packaging for crackers

This study investigated the incorporation of eucalyptus nanocellulose (CNF) into rice starch-based thermoplastic (TPS) films, evaluating the effects of four CNF concentrations (0 %, 2 %, 4 %, and 6 %, w/w) on the physicochemical properties of the films. The analyses included scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), solubility, mechanical properties, optical properties, biodegradability, and application for cookie preservation. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) confirmed good CNF dispersion at 4 %, while higher concentrations caused agglomeration. FTIR analysis revealed effective interactions between CNF and the starch matrix. The TPS + 4 % CNF film showed reductions in water solubility (44 %), solubility in acidic (34 %) and basic (32 %) conditions, water vapor permeability (51 %), and water retention capacity (27 %) compared to pure TPS. Tensile strength increased from 3 MPa (pure TPS) to 6.5 MPa (TPS with 4 % CNF), while elongation at break ranged from 38 % (pure TPS) to 65 % (TPS with 2 % CNF). At 6 % CNF, elongation decreased to 45 %, with increased rigidity. The TPS + 4 % CNF film demonstrated good performance in mechanical strength and water vapor barrier properties, while higher CNF concentrations resulted in stiffer, less flexible films due to restricted polymer chain mobility. Higher CNF concentrations also increased the film's opacity. With 90 % biodegradability after 15 days, the reinforced film showed environmental potential. In cookie preservation, TPS + 4 % CNF demonstrated promising performance, with moisture barrier and texture preservation capabilities comparable to oriented polypropylene (BOPP). The combination of biodegradable primary packaging with non-biodegradable secondary packaging offers an innovative solution for food protection with reduced environmental impact.

Transparent, mechanically robust and antibacterial food packaging film based on starch/PVA/citric acid/carboxycellulose nanofibers by one-pot green process

The development of biodegradable food packaging films is urgent because of the environmental crisis of the "plastic siege", and natural polysaccharide films are promising alternatives due to their eco-friendly attributes. Starch/poly (vinyl alcohol)/citric acid/carboxycellulose nanofibers (SPCC) films were prepared by hydrogen bonding and citric acid esterification cross-linking in a simple and green one-pot method, which avoids the use of plasticizers harmful to human health. Because of the presence of carboxyl groups, the nanofibers are uniformly dispersed. The dual reinforcement of carboxycellulose nanofibers and poly (vinyl alcohol) made the tensile strength of SPCC film up to about 56 MPa, while the commercial Polyethylene (PE) film was only about 35 MPa. Meanwhile, the film had excellent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (≥95.5 %) and Staphylococcus aureus (≥96.6 %), water resistance, and gas barrier properties. The transparent SPCC films inhibited the browning of litchis for about 4 days and kept the appearance and physicochemical properties of plums stable for 14 days. In particular, the film was virtually biodegradable in soil after 30 days, which opens up the possibility of replacing non-biodegradable petrochemical packaging films.

Evaluation of amylose content: Structural and functional properties, analytical techniques, and future prospects

Amylose content (AC) is critical in evaluating starch properties, significantly influencing the food industry and human nutrition. Although amylose is not completely linear, its unique structure makes it a key research focus across various scientific fields. Understanding amylose's structural and functional properties is essential for its applications in medical, nutritional, and industrial sectors. Accurate determination of AC, from simple qualitative assessments to precise quantitative measurements, is vital for effectively processing and using starch-rich products. The choice of AC determination method depends on the specific application and the required accuracy and detail. This review summarizes amylose's structural and functional characteristics and recent advancements in qualitative and quantitative AC determination techniques. It also provides insights into future trends and prospects for these technologies, emphasizing the need for more rapid, convenient, accurate, and customizable methods. In conclusion, advancements in amylose determination should enhance accuracy, speed, and ease of use to improve quality control and applications across various sectors while expanding our understanding of amylose and its functionalities.

Enhancing Strawberry Freshness: Multifunction Sustainable Films Utilizing Two Types of Modified Carbon Nanotubes for Photothermal Food Packaging

Currently, antimicrobial films with stable and efficient antibacterial activities are receiving considerable attention in the food packaging industry. Herein, a chemically/physically linked konjac glucomannan-sodium alginate (KGM-SA)@carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/Fe3+ composite film with outstanding resistance to ultraviolet radiation, oxidation, and bacteria, as well as excellent photothermal effects and mechanical properties, was successfully prepared using a solvent flow method. Tannic acid-modified carboxyl-functionalized CNTs (TCCNTs), l-cysteine-modified carboxyl-functionalized CNTs (LCCNTs), and Fe3+ were incorporated into the prepared film. The film structure of KGM-SA@CNTs/Fe3+ was characterized using various methods, confirming the formation of a dual-cross-linked network through metal-coordination bonds and hydrogen bonding. This unique structure endowed the film with excellent water vapor permeability (3.58 g mm/m2 day kPa), water resistance (water contact angle = 93.66°), and thermal stability. Further, the film exhibited outstanding photothermal conversion efficiency and stability under near-infrared irradiation (300 mW/cm2) as well as excellent bactericidal properties against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, achieving a bacterial inhibition rate of >99%. In a strawberry preservation experiment, the KGM-SA@CNTs/Fe3+ composite film exhibited remarkable preservation effects, extending the shelf life of strawberries by 4-6 d. Thus, this photothermal antibacterial film offers a new approach for the application of CNTs in food packaging.

Konjac glucomannan-based composite materials: Construction, biomedical applications, and prospects

Konjac glucomannan (KGM) as an emerging natural polymer has attracted increasing interests owing to its film-forming properties, excellent gelation, non-toxic characteristics, strong adhesion, good biocompatibility, and easy biodegradability. Benefiting from these superior performances, KGM has been widely applied in the construction of multiple composite materials to further improve their intrinsic performances (e.g., mechanical strength and properties). Up to now, KGM-based composite materials have obtained widespread applications in diverse fields, especially in the field of biomedical. Therefore, a timely review of relevant research progresses is important for promoting the development of KGM-based composite materials. Innovatively, firstly, this review briefly introduced the structure properties and functions of KGMs based on the unique perspective of the biomedical field. Then, the latest advances on the preparation and properties of KGM-based composite materials (i.e., gels, microspheres, films, nanofibers, nanoparticles, etc.) were comprehensively summarized. Finally, the promising applications of KGM-based composite materials in the field of biomedical are comprehensively summarized and discussed, involving drug delivery, wound healing, tissue engineering, antibacterial, tumor treatment, etc. Impressively, the remaining challenges and opportunities in this promising field were put forward. This review can provide a reference for guiding and promoting the design and biomedical applications of KGM-based composites.

Bio-based composite film from konjac flour and dialdehyde starch: Development, properties and structural features

The development of environmental-friendly composite products from renewable resources has been considered as an excellent approach to address the negative impact of petroleum-based plastics on environment. Konjac flour (KF), as an excellent polysaccharide material, has a broad application in food field. It shows a promising future in the film field due to its excellent film-forming properties. In this work, KF was selected as primary film-forming matrix, and dialdehyde starch (DAS) as the reinforcing component. A series of KF/DAS composite films were prepared by adjusting the addition ratio of DAS component. Then, their physical and mechanical properties were characterized and analyzed. The results showed that KF/DAS composite film with 25 % DAS content exhibited the optimal mechanical properties, including tensile strength (TS) of 13.1 MPa and elongation at break (EAB) of 93.7 %, indicating that an excellent cross-linked system formed among KF and DAS utilizing the method described in this study. Furthermore, much evidences from the fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed that a strong chemical cross-linkages between DAS and KF via Schiff base and esterification reactions. Based on the thermogravimetry (TG) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results, KF/DAS composite films also had excellent thermal stability and a dense microstructure, although there are also changes with the DAS usage.

Effect of ultrasound/CaCl2 co-treatment on the microstructure, gelatinization, and film-forming properties of high amylose corn starch

The effect of ultrasound/CaCl2 co-treatment on aggregation structure, thermal stability, rheological, and film properties of high amylose corn starch (HACS) was investigated. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed the number of starch fragments and malformed starch granules increased after co-treatment. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results showed the co-treated HACS got a lower gelatinization temperature (92.65 ± 0.495 °C) and enthalpy values (ΔH, 4.14 ± 0.192 J/g). The optical microscope images indicated that lesser Maltase crosses were observed in co-treated HACS. The results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated ultrasound influenced the compactness of amorphous zone and CaCl2 damaged the crystalline region of HACS granules. Additionally, the rheology properties of HACS dispersion demonstrated the apparent viscosity of co-treated dispersion increased as the ultrasound time prolonged. The mechanical strength and structural compactness of HACS films were improved after ultrasound treatment. The mechanism of ultrasound/CaCl2 co-treatment improved the gelatinization and film-forming ability of HACS was that (i) ultrasound wave loosened the HACS granules shell, promoted the treatment of CaCl2 on HACS granules, and (ii) ultrasound wave improved the uniform distribution of HACS dispersion, increased the interaction between CaCl2 and starch chains during the process of film-forming.

Synthesis and application of gelatin-based controlled-release antibacterial films containing oregano essential oil/β-cyclodextrin microcapsules for chilling preservation of grass carp fillets

This work aimed to synthesize oregano essential oil/β-cyclodextrin microcapsules (OEO/β-CDs) and then prepare gelatin-based controlled-release antibacterial films with different OEO/β-CDs contents (0%-2%) for chilling preservation of grass carp fillets. The results of FTIR, XRD, DSC and accelerated release ratio showed that OEO was successfully encapsulated in OEO/β-CDs and its thermal stability was effectively improved. Moreover, at 2% of addition amount of OEO/β-CDs, the tensile strength of the films increased from 14.43 MPa to 18.72 MPa. In addition, the films showed significant antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas (61.52%), Aeromonas (62.87%), and Shewanella putrefaciens (66.67%). Preservation experiments showed that the films effectively prevented the increase of TVB-N, and TBA value of the refrigerated fillets and significantly suppressed the growth of spoilage organisms, thus extending the shelf life by 2-3 days. Therefore, the synthesized film has promising potential as an active packaging material for the preservation of grass carp.

Multi-strategy dynamic cross-linking to prepare EGCG-loaded multifunctional Pickering emulsion/α-cyclodextrin/konjac glucomannan composite films for ultra-durable preservation of perishable fruits

Developing multifunctional films with antibacterial, antioxidant, and sustained-release properties is a robust strategy for preventing contamination of perishable fruits by foodborne microorganisms. This study engineered a sustained-release biodegradable antibacterial film loaded with EGCG (Pickering emulsion (PE)/α-Cyclodextrin (α-CD)/Konjac glucomannan (KGM)) through multi-strategy cross-linking for fruit preservation. EGCG is stabilized using PE and incorporated into the α-CD/KGM inclusion compound; the unique structure of α-CD enhances EGCG encapsulation, while KGM provides the film toughness and surface adhesion. The composite film's physicochemical properties, antioxidant, bacteriostatic and biodegradability were studied. Results showed that Pickering emulsions with 3 % oil phase exhibited excellent stability. Moreover, α-CD introduction increased the loading and sustained release of EGCG from the film, and its concentration significantly affected the light transmission, thermal stability, mechanical strength, mechanical characteristics and antioxidant capacity of the composite membrane. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the composite film increased significantly with increasing α-CD concentration. Application of the film to tomatoes and strawberries effectively inhibited Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus growth, prolonging the shelf-life of the fruits. Notably, the composite film exhibits superior biodegradability in soil. This EGCG-loaded PE/α-CD/KGM composite film is anticipated to be a multifunctional antimicrobial preservation material with sustained-release properties and biodegradable for perishable food applications.

An Electroconductive and Antibacterial Adhesive Nanocomposite Hydrogel for High-Performance Skin Wound Healing

Multifunctional hydrogel adhesives inhibiting infections and enabling the electrical stimulation (ES) of tissue reparation are highly desirable for the healing of surgical wounds and other skin injuries. Herein, a therapeutic nanocomposite hydrogel is designed by integrating β-cyclodextrin-embedded Ag nanoparticles (CDAgNPs) in a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix enhanced with free β-cyclodextrin (CD) and an atypical macromolecule made of β-glucan grafted with hyaluronic acid (HAG). The main objective is to develop a biocompatible dressing combining the electroconductivity and antibacterial activity of CDAgNPs with the cohesiveness and porosity of PVA and the anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and cell proliferation-promoting properties of HAG. The last component, CD, is added to strengthen the network structure of the hydrogel. PVA/CD/HAG/CDAgNP exhibited excellent adhesion strength, biocompatibility, electroconductivity, and antimicrobial activity against a wide range of bacteria. In addition, the nanocomposite hydrogel has a swelling ratio and water retention capacity suitable to serve as a wound dressing. PVA/CD/HAG/CDAgNP promoted the proliferation of fibroblast in vitro, accelerated the healing of skin wounds in an animal model, and is hemostatic. Upon ES, the PVA/CD/HAG/CDAgNP nanocomposite hydrogel became more efficient both in vitro and in vivo further speeding up the skin healing process thus demonstrating its potential as a next-generation electroconductive wound dressing.

Effect of apple polyphenols on physicochemical properties of pea starch/pulp cellulose nanofiber composite biodegradable films

A pea starch (PS) and pulp cellulose nanofibers (CNF-P) hybrid matrix biodegradable film was prepared using apple polyphenol (AP) as the active substance. SEM and thermogravimetric analyses showed that apple polyphenols could be uniformly distributed and form hydrogen bonds with the matrix, and the increase in crystallinity improved the thermal stability of the films (the final residue of the films increased from 22.66 % to 31.82 %). The TS and EAB of the films reached their maximum values of 11.14 ± 1.73 MPa and 71.55 ± 8.8 %, respectively, at an AP content of 1.5 %. It should be noted that the antioxidant properties of the films were significantly positively correlated with the AP content, and the DPPH radical scavenging rate of the films reached 73.77 % at an AP content of 4.5 %, which was about 49 times higher than that of the control film. The same trend was observed in the UV-vis spectra. In addition, the total color difference and water solubility of the membranes increased from 4.29 ± 0.29 to 31.86 ± 1.90 and from 20.01 ± 0.97 % to 21.70 ± 1.99 %, respectively, and the biodegradability also showed an upward trend. These findings provide a theoretical basis and data support for the development of multifunctional biodegradable food packaging materials.

Ethyl cellulose/gelatin-carboxymethyl chitosan bilayer films doped with Euryale ferox seed shell polyphenol for cooked meat preservation

This study evaluated the effects of an edible bilayer containing polyphenols from the Euryale ferox seed shell on ready-to-eat cooked beef products, including the physical, mechanical, antioxidant, and antibacterial capabilities. Here, the bilayer films were prepared by layer-by-layer solution pouring using hydrophobic ethyl cellulose (EC) as the outer layer, and hydrophilic gelatin/carboxymethyl chitosan (GC) as the inner layer. By adjusting the proportion of gelatin to carboxymethyl chitosan, the optical, mechanical, and barrier characteristics of bilayer films were markedly enhanced. Extracted polyphenol (EP) from shell of the Euryale ferox seed performed potent antibacterial property against Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes). The addition of EP to the inner layer of the optimized bilayer film further improved the mechanical and barrier properties of films, and as expected, the film exhibited antioxidant and antibacterial abilities. Additionally, cooked beef and cooked chicken preservation tests indicated that the active bilayer film showed good inhibition of L. monocytogenes and delayed lipid oxidation in ready-to-eat meat products, and significantly delayed the pH, moisture loss, color and texture changes. This study developed multifunctional bilayer active edible films, which has a great potential in the preservation ready-to-eat cooked meat products.

Development of mussel-inspired chitosan-derived edible coating for fruit preservation

Fruit rotting at the postharvest stage severely limits their marketing supply chains and shelf-life. Thus, developing a green and cost-effective approach to extend the shelf-life of perishable foods is highly desired. In this study, inspired by the mussel-adhesion strategy, a multifunctional fruit coating material has been developed using a quaternized catechol-functionalized chitosan (CQ-CS) grafted with 2, 3-epoxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride and 3, 4-dihydroxy benzaldehyde. The as-prepared CQ-CS coating exhibited excellent mechanical properties, universal surface adhesion abilities, antimicrobial and antioxidant capacities without any potential toxicity effects. Using strawberry and banana as model fruits, we showed that the CQ-CS coating could effectively maintain the fruit's firmness and color, decrease the weight loss rate, and prevent microbial growth, thus finally extending their shelf- life when compared to uncoated samples, indicating the universal application of the as-prepared CQ-CS coating. These findings demonstrated that this novel conformal coating of CQ-CS has great potential for fruit preservation in the food industry.

Production of Biodegradable Polymeric Composites with the Addition of Waste

Several solutions have been presented to minimize the environmental impact generated by polymers produced from petroleum resources. This work produced a biopolymer using glycerol, starch (<5) and macaúba epicarp fiber (10-15-20-25-30%) as reinforcement. The interaction of glycerol with starch was favored by the addition of acetic acid (CH3COOH). The pH was adjusted with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at a concentration of 0.1 mol·L-1. The characterization was carried out through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared reflectance-FTIR, water solubility, biodegradability and technological properties. Through the results obtained in this work, it is observed that the tensile strength and modulus of elasticity are influenced by the addition of the fiber concentration; the sample that received a 30% addition presented 19.17 MPa and 348.12 MPa, respectively. All samples showed low solubility in water and low density, in addition to a high rate of degradability in soil with mass loss corresponding to 59% over a period of three months. The results of this investigation are satisfactory for the production of materials that can be used in everyday life, replacing conventional plastic.

Mechanical, Barrier and Thermal Properties of Amylose-Argan Proteins-Based Bioplastics in the Presence of Transglutaminase

The bioeconomy aims to discover new sources for producing energy and materials and to valorize byproducts that otherwise would get wasted. In this work, we investigate the possibility of producing novel bioplastics, made up of argan seed proteins (APs), extracted from argan oilcake, and amylose (AM), obtained from barley plants through an RNA interference technique. Argan, Argania spinosa, is a plant widespread in arid regions of Northern Africa, where it plays a fundamental socio-ecological role. Argan seeds are used to obtain a biologically active and edible oil, producing a byproduct, the oilcake, that is rich in proteins, fibers, and fats, and is generally used as animal food. Recently, argan oilcakes have been attracting attention as a waste to be recovered to obtain high-added-value products. Here, APs were chosen to test the performance of blended bioplastics with AM, because they have the potential to improve the properties of the final product. High-AM-starches present attractive features for use as bioplastics, including a higher gel-forming capacity, a higher thermal stability, and reduced swelling compared to normal starch. It has already been demonstrated that pure AM-based films provide more suitable properties than normal starch-based films. Here, we report on the performance of these novel blended bioplastics in terms of their mechanical, barrier, and thermal properties; and the effect of the enzyme microbial transglutaminase (mTGase) as a reticulating agent for AP's components was also studied. These results contribute to the development of novel sustainable bioplastics with improved properties and confirm the possibility of valorizing the byproduct, APs, using them as a new raw material.

Self-healing properties of retrograded starch films with enzyme-treated waxy maize starch as healing agent

Waxy maize starch (WMS) was modified using sequential α-amylase and transglucosidase to create enzyme-treated waxy maize starch (EWMS) with higher branching degree and lower viscosity as an ideal healing agent. Self-healing properties of retrograded starch films with microcapsules containing WMS (WMC) and EWMS (EWMC) were investigated. The results indicated that EWMS-16 had the maximum branching degree of 21.88 % after transglucosidase treatment time of 16 h, and A chain of 12.89 %, B1 chain of 60.76 %, B2 chain of 18.82 % and B3 chain of 7.52 %. The particle sizes of EWMC ranged from 2.754 to 5.754 μm. The embedding rate of EWMC was 50.08 %. Compared to retrograded starch films with WMC, water vapor transmission coefficients of retrograded starch films with EWMC were lower, while tensile strength and elongation at break values of retrograded starch films were almost similar. Retrograded starch films with EWMC had higher healing efficiency of 58.33 % as compared to that Retrograded starch films retrograded starch films with WMC was 44.65 %.

Understanding the Potential Gene Regulatory Network of Starch Biosynthesis in Tartary Buckwheat by RNA-Seq

Starch is a major component of crop grains, and its content affects food quality and taste. Tartary buckwheat is a traditional pseudo-cereal used in food as well as medicine. Starch content, granule morphology, and physicochemical properties have been extensively studied in Tartary buckwheat. However, the complex regulatory network related to its starch biosynthesis needs to be elucidated. Here, we performed RNA-seq analyses using seven Tartary buckwheat varieties differing in starch content and combined the RNA-seq data with starch content by weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA). As a result, 10,873 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and were functionally clustered to six hierarchical clusters. Fifteen starch biosynthesis genes had higher expression level in seeds. Four trait-specific modules and 3131 hub genes were identified by WGCNA, with the lightcyan and brown modules positively correlated with starch-related traits. Furthermore, two potential gene regulatory networks were proposed, including the co-expression of FtNAC70, FtPUL, and FtGBSS1-3 in the lightcyan module and FtbHLH5, C3H, FtBE2, FtISA3, FtSS3-5, and FtSS1 in the brown. All the above genes were preferentially expressed in seeds, further suggesting their role in seed starch biosynthesis. These results provide crucial guidance for further research on starch biosynthesis and its regulatory network in Tartary buckwheat.

Effects of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose on Physicochemical Properties and Microstructure of κ-Carrageenan Film

We investigated the effects of different proportions of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) on the properties of κ-carrageenan film. Biodegradable κ-carrageenan/HPMC films (κCHM film) were prepared by the solution casting method and their physicochemical properties were evaluated. The results show that the addition of HPMC enhanced oxygen barrier capacity, mechanical properties (tensile strength and elongation at break) and thermal stability. Notably, when the addition of HPMC increased to 6% of κ-carrageenan (w:w), the κCHM-6 film not only effectively improved water resistance, including lower water solubility, water vapor permeability and higher water contact angle, but also made the structure of the κCHM-6 film more compact. Moreover, rheological measurement and atomic force microscopy characterization showed that κ-carrageenan had suitable compatibility with HPMC. Attenuated total reflection–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis further confirmed the enhancement of hydrogen bond interactions. This finding could contribute to promoting the potential application of κCHM film in food packaging.

Zinc insulin hexamer loaded alginate zinc hydrogel: preparation, characterization and in vivo hypoglycemic ability

Alginate zinc hydrogel loaded with zinc insulin hexamer was prepared and characterized for oral insulin administration. The hydrogel was fabricated by dripping zinc insulin hexamer into sodium alginate solution and followed by crosslinking by zinc chloride. SEM image reveals the zinc insulin hexamer was integrated into the matrix of hydrogel. Zinc insulin hexamer loaded hydrogel shows no obvious cytotoxicity to both HT29 and Caco-2 cells. The developed hydrogel retards the burst release of insulin in simulated gastric fluid but promotes the release when in simulated intestinal fluid. In the diabetic mice, zinc insulin hexamer loaded alginate hydrogel demonstrates significant and prolonged hypoglycemic effect.

Pickering emulsions stabilized by β-cyclodextrin and cinnamaldehyde essential oil/β-cyclodextrin composite: A comparison study

Here, a cinnamaldehyde essential oil (CEO)/β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) composite with a high embedding rate (91.74 ± 0.82%) was prepared. Its structure was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). Pickering emulsions prepared by β-CD and CEO/β-CD at different concentrations (1-5%) were comparatively investigated. The CEO/β-CD emulsions had better storage stability. Rheological results confirmed the emulsions were all gel-like elastic emulsions and had shear thinning phenomenon. Fluorescence microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results confirmed that the most of excessive β-CD was adsorbed on the surface of emulsion droplets as crystals, formed thick protective shell in β-CD emulsions, while the most of excessive composites were distributed in the aqueous phase forming a stable network structure in CEO/β-CD emulsions. It caused these two emulsions had different rheological properties, and different changing trends in droplet size.

High Amylose-Based Bio Composites: Structures, Functions and Applications

As biodegradable and eco-friendly bio-resources, polysaccharides from a wide range of sources show steadily increasing interest. The increasing fossil-based production of materials are heavily associated with environmental and climate concerns, these biopolymers are addressing such concerns in important areas such as food and biomedical applications. Among polysaccharides, high amylose starch (HAS) has made major progress to marketable products due to its unique properties and enhanced nutritional values in food applications. While high amylose-maize, wheat, barley and potato are commercially available, HAS variants of other crops have been developed recently and is expected to be commercially available in the near future. This review edifies various forms and processing techniques used to produce HAS-based polymers and composites addressing their favorable properties as compared to normal starch. Low toxic and high compatibility natural plasticizers are of great concern in the processing of HAS. Further emphasis, is also given to some essential film properties such as mechanical and barrier properties for HAS-based materials. The functionality of HAS-based functionality can be improved by using different fillers as well as by modulating the inherent structures of HAS. We also identify specific opportunities for HAS-based food and biomedical fabrications aiming to produce cheaper, better, and more eco-friendly materials. We acknowledge that a multidisciplinary approach is required to achieve further improvement of HAS-based products providing entirely new types of sustainable materials.

Catechin/β-cyclodextrin complex modulates physicochemical properties of pre-gelatinized starch-based orally disintegrating films

The study aimed to develop pre-gelatinized starch-based orally disintegrating films (ODFs) containing catechin/β-cyclodextrin (CAT/β-CD) complex and to evaluate the influence of the complex on the physicochemical properties of the ODFs. SEM images showed that a compacter and more homogeneous ODFs were formed due to interactions between starch matrix and CAT/β-CD. FTIR spectra demonstrated that the interactions between starches or starch and CAT/β-CD were enhanced by hydrogen bonds. Thermal stability of ODFs was improved by incorporating CAT/β-CD, its peak decomposition temperature was enhanced from 310.74 to 321.83 °C. Tensile strength was increased from 11.597 ± 0.153 to 22.172 ± 0.752 MPa, while elongation at break decreased by from 11.233% ± 1.079% to 3.633% ± 0.058%. The prepared ODFs have an acceptable in vitro disintegration time, which were between 9.03 ± 0.79 s and 42.23 ± 1.76 s. Antimicrobial test showed that ODFs incorporating CAT/β-CD inhibited the growth of S. aureus and S. mutans successfully. The limited release of CAT molecules from the ODFs was also found. In addition, the ODFs have excellent antioxidant capacity. Its antioxidant activity remained at around 70% after 28 days of storage. The study indicated that the combination of ODFs and β-CD complex have a high potential for the delivery of natural active ingredients.

Cyclodextrins in Polymer-Based Active Food Packaging: A Fresh Look at Nontoxic, Biodegradable, and Sustainable Technology Trends

Using cyclodextrins (CDs) in packaging technologies helps volatile or bioactive molecules improve their solubility, to guarantee the homogeneous distribution of the complexed molecules, protecting them from volatilization, oxidation, and temperature fluctuations when they are associated with polymeric matrices. This technology is also suitable for the controlled release of active substances and allows the exploration of their association with biodegradable polymer targeting to reduce the negative environmental impacts of food packaging. Here, we present a fresh look at the current status of and future prospects regarding the different strategies used to associate cyclodextrins and their derivatives with polymeric matrices to fabricate sustainable and biodegradable active food packaging (AFP). Particular attention is paid to the materials and the fabrication technologies available to date. In addition, the use of cutting-edge strategies, including the trend of nanotechnologies in active food packaging, is emphasized. Furthermore, a critical view on the risks to human health and the associated updated legislation is provided. Some of the more representative patents and commercial products that currently use AFP are also listed. Finally, the current and future research challenges which must be addressed are discussed.

Native Cyclodextrins and Their Derivatives as Potential Additives for Food Packaging: A Review

Cyclodextrins (CDs) have been used by the pharmaceutical and food industries since the 1970s. Their cavities allow the accommodation of several hydrophobic molecules, leading to the formation of inclusion complexes (ICs) increasing the guest molecules’ stability, allowing their controlled release, enhancing their water solubility and biodisponibility. Due to these, CDs and their ICs have been proposed to be used as potential allies in food packaging, especially in active packaging. In this review, we present the many ways in which the CDs can be applied in food packaging, being incorporated into the polymer matrix or as a constituent of sachets and/or pads aiming for food preservation, as well as the diverse polymer matrices investigated. The different types of CDs, natives and derivatives, and the several types of compounds that can be used as guest molecules are also discussed.