Chitosan-based composite films containing eugenol nanoemulsion, ZnO nanoparticles and Aloe vera gel for active food packaging

Biopolymer-based food packaging films are gaining increasing popularity, as consumers' demands for sustainable alternatives and environmental concerns associated with synthetic plastic packaging grow. In this research work, chitosan-based active antimicrobial films reinforced with eugenol nanoemulsion (EuNE), Aloe vera gel, and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were fabricated and characterized for their solubility, microstructure, optical properties, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The rate of release of EuNE from the fabricated films was also evaluated to determine active nature of the films. The EuNE droplet size was about 200 nm, and they were uniformly distributed throughout the film matrices. Incorporation of EuNE in chitosan drastically improved UV-light barrier property of the fabricated composite film by 3 to 6 folds, while maintaining their transparency. The XRD spectra of the fabricated films showed good compatibility between the chitosan and the incorporated active agents. The incorporation of ZnONPs significantly improved their antibacterial properties against foodborne bacteria and tensile strength about 2-folds, whereas incorporation of EuNE and AVG improved DPPH scavenging activities of the chitosan film up to 95 %, respectively.

Application of alginate polymer films and coatings incorporated with essential oils in foods: a review of recent literature with emphasis on nanotechnology

Food waste is one of the major challenges in food safety and finding a solution for this issue is critically important. Herein, edible films and coatings became attractive for scientists as they can keep food from spoilage. Edible films and coatings can effectively preserve the original quality of food and extend its shelf life. Polysaccharides, including starch and cellulose derivatives, chitosan, alginate and pectin, have been extensively studied as biopackaging materials. One of the most interesting polysaccharides is alginate, which has been used to make edible films and coatings. Incorporating essential oils (EO) in alginate matrices results in an improvement in some properties of the edible packages, such as antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Additionally, the use of nanotechnology can improve the desirable properties of edible films and coatings. In this article we reviewed the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of alginate coatings and films and their use in various food products.

Construction and application of nano ZnO/eugenol@yam starch/microcrystalline cellulose active antibacterial film

The goal of this study was to develop new biocomposite films that can better protect and prolong the shelf life of food. Here, a ZnO: eugenol@yam starch/microcrystalline cellulose (ZnO:Eu@SC) antibacterial active film was constructed. Because of the advantages of metal oxides and plant essential oils, codoping with these can effectively improve the physicochemical and functional properties of composite films. The addition of an appropriate amount of nano-ZnO improved the compactness and thermostability, reduced the moisture sensitivity, and enhanced the mechanical and barrier properties of the film. ZnO:Eu@SC exhibited good controlled release of nano-ZnO and Eu in food simulants. Nano-ZnO and Eu release was controlled by two mechanisms: diffusion (primary) and swelling (secondary). After loading Eu, the antimicrobial activity of ZnO:Eu@SC was significantly enhanced, resulting in a synergistic antibacterial effect. Z₄:Eu@SC film extended the pork shelf life by 100 % (25 °C). In humus, the ZnO:Eu@SC film was effectively degraded into fragments. Therefore, the ZnO:Eu@SC film has excellent potential in food active packaging.

Avian Eggshell Membrane as a Novel Biomaterial: A Review

The eggshell membrane (ESM), mainly composed of collagen-like proteins, is readily available as a waste product of the egg industry. As a novel biomaterial, ESM is attractive for its applications in the nutraceutical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical fields. This review provides the main information about the structure and chemical composition of the ESM as well as some approaches for its isolation and solubilization. In addition, the review focuses on the role and performance of bioactive ESM-derived products in various applications, while a detailed literature survey is provided. The evaluation of the safety of ESM is also summarized. Finally, new perspectives regarding the potential of ESM as a novel biomaterial in various engineering fields are discussed. This review provides promising future directions for comprehensive application of ESM.