Development of Multifunctional Pullulan/Chitosan-Based Composite Films Reinforced with ZnO Nanoparticles and Propolis for Meat Packaging Applications

Starch-chitosan-Taro mucilage nanocomposite active food packaging film doped with zinc oxide nanoparticles - Fabrication, mechanical properties, anti-bacterial activity and eco toxicity assessment

In this research, a novel active food packaging material was developed by blending starch, chitosan, and plant-based mucilage with zinc oxide nanoparticles. The polymeric nanocomposite film, created by incorporating zinc oxide nanoparticles into the mixture using a straightforward approach, was analyzed for its structural and functional attributes using FTIR, XRD, SEM, and TGA/DSC. These analyses revealed a robust interaction between the polymers' functional groups and the nanoparticles, forming a stable film. The film's mechanical properties, including tensile strength and Young's modulus, were high. It also showed reduced wettability and water solubility, enhancing water resistance. The biodegradability rate was 100 %. Antibacterial tests against Bacillus sp. and Pseudomonas sp. showed significant inhibition zones of 26 mm and 30 mm, respectively, demonstrating strong antibacterial effectiveness. The film's non-target toxicity was assessed through phytotoxicity experiments on Vigna angularis and soil nutrient evaluations, with no negative impact on plant growth or soil health observed. These results indicate that this nanocomposite is a safe, biocompatible option for food packaging.

Preparation and characterization of carboxymethylated pullulan/butyric acid-modified chitosan active sustainable bi-layer coatings intended for packaging of cheese slices

Dependence of the food industry on conventional plastic and the generation of enormous amounts of food waste caused by microbiological spoilage have been imposed as inspiration for this work, to develop active sustainable packaging for sliced cheese using the bi-layer design. Pullulan was modified using a green approach to obtain a polyanionic character in the coating formulation. Chitosan, which has a cationic character in an acidic environment, has been modified using a butyric acid to obtain an amphiphilic character. The formed active bi-layer has demonstrated an improved barrier (decreased permeability for moisture vapor 72.2 and 77.7 times) and mechanical properties (increased tensile strength value up to 3.9 and 9.4 times) compared to the monolayer films. A novel approach to microbiological control of sliced cheese has been established, which implies a synergistic effect of Helichrysum italicum essential oil (EO) and corresponding hydrolate (HY) incorporated in separated layers. This design has ensured avoiding surfactants and preserving cheese's sensory properties, prolonging its shelf-life by 50 % at least. Improvements in cheese storage conditions using this packaging lie in the improved barrier, mechanical and antimicrobial properties, the order of lamination, and a good covering of the cheese surface by spraying.

Preparation of multi-functional active packaging film of Galla chinensis waste CDs/pullulan

In this study, multifunctional green carbon dots (CDs) have been synthesized using Galla chinensis waste (GCW) via hydrothermal method for the first time. An active packaging film has been developed in this work by combining CDs and pullulan (PL), using the solution-casting method. The microscopic morphology revealed that the CDs that were prepared using GCW exhibited good compatibility with PL. In addition, it also led to improvement in the toughness of the PL film (14.01 % to 20.26 %), along with its water vapor permeability value [1.31 to 0.53 (g·mm)/(kPa·h·m2)]. The composite films consisting of CDs exhibited good UV blocking rates for the UVA (90.41 %-7.87 %), UVB (87.76 %-0.08 %), and UVC (83.39 %-0 %) spectral ranges. The composite films exhibited strong antioxidant activity, and the clearance of ABTS and DPPH were obtained to be 93.61 % and 86.30 %, respectively. In addition, the composite films showed good antibacterial activity for E. coli and S. aureus, with a high antibacterial rate of up to 99.99 %. Finally, the non-contact preservation of strawberries over a duration of 10 d at room temperature confirmed that the prepared composite film can help preserve the quality of strawberries, as well as extended their shelf-life.

Potential of Pullulan-Based Polymeric Nanoparticles for Improving Drug Physicochemical Properties and Effectiveness

Pullulan, a natural polysaccharide with unique biocompatibility and biodegradability, has gained prominence in nanomedicine. Its application in nanoparticle drug delivery systems showcases its potential for precision medicine.

AIM OF STUDY

This scientific review aims to comprehensively discuss and summarize recent advancements in pullulan-based polymeric nanoparticles, focusing on their formulation, characterization, evaluation, and efficacy.

METHODOLOGY

A search on Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar, using "Pullulan and Nanoparticle" as keywords, identified relevant articles in recent years.

RESULTS

The literature search highlighted a diverse range of studies on the pullulan-based polymeric nanoparticles, including the success of high-selectivity hybrid pullulan-based nanoparticles for efficient boron delivery in colon cancer as the active targeting nanoparticle, the specific and high-efficiency release profile of the development of hyalgan-coated pullulan-based nanoparticles, and the design of multifunctional microneedle patches that incorporated pullulan-collagen-based nanoparticle-loaded antimicrobials to accelerate wound healing. These studies collectively underscore the versatility and transformative potential of pullulan-based polymeric nanoparticles in addressing biomedical challenges.

CONCLUSION

Pullulan-based polymeric nanoparticles are promising candidates for innovative drug delivery systems, with the potential to overcome the limitations associated with traditional delivery methods.

Nanotechnology in food packaging materials: role and application of nanoparticles

Global concerns about food security, driven by rising demand, have prompted the exploration of nanotechnology as a solution to enhance food supply. This shift comes in response to the limitations of conventional technologies in meeting the ever-increasing demand for food products. Consequently, nanoparticles play a crucial role in enhancing food production, preservation, and extending shelf life by imparting exceptional properties to materials. Nanoparticles and nanostructures with attributes like expansive surface area and antimicrobial efficacy, are versatile in both traditional packaging and integration into biopolymer matrices. These distinctive qualities contribute to their extensive use in various food sector applications. Hence, this review explores the physicochemical properties, functions, and biological aspects of nanoparticles in the context of food packaging. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of nanoparticles with different biopolymers, alongside its different potential applications such as food shelf-life extenders, antimicrobial agents and as nanomaterials for developing smart packaging systems were summarily explored. While the ongoing exploration of this research area is evident, our review highlights the substantial potential of nanomaterials to emerge as a viable choice for food packaging if the challenges regarding toxicity are carefully and effectively modulated.

Degradable chitosan-based bioplastic packaging: Design, preparation and applications

Food packaging is an essential part of food transportation, storage and preservation. Biodegradable biopolymers are a significant direction for the future development of food packaging materials. As a natural biological polysaccharide, chitosan has been widely concerned by researchers in the field of food packaging due to its excellent film-forming property, good antibacterial property and designability. Thus, the application research of chitosan-based food packaging films, coatings and aerogels has been greatly developed. In this review, recent advances on chitosan-based food packaging materials are summarized. Firstly, the development background of chitosan-based packaging materials was described, and then chitosan itself was introduced. In addition, the design, preparation and applications of films, coatings and aerogels in chitosan-based packaging for food preservation were discussed, and the advantages and disadvantages of each research in the development of chitosan-based packaging materials were analyzed. Finally, the application prospects, challenges and suggestions for solving the problems of chitosan-based packaging are summarized and prospected.

Tannic acid crosslinked chitosan-guar gum composite films for packaging application

Chitosan (CH)-guar gum (GG) composite films crosslinked with tannic acid (TnA) were prepared by solution casting method. The films were then immersed in 5 % aqueous NH3 and dried again. They were characterized by IR spectroscopy, wide angle x-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. All the films were studied for physicochemical properties such as moisture content, swelling, solubility in water, water contact angle, water vapor permeability, opacity, tensile strength and antioxidant activity. The physicochemical and mechanical properties of films changed significantly when compared to CH as reflected by an increase in the amorphous domains of the films, a decrease in moisture content, swelling and solubility in water. The films turned hydrophobic with concomitant decrease in moisture content, swelling, water-solubility and exhibited improved UV absorption as well as mechanical strength, which in turn was dependent on the tannic acid concentration. These results along with enhanced antioxidant properties, UV absorption with no significant change in water vapor permeation compared to CH suggested that the films could find application in packaging applications.

Development of collagen-chitosan dressing gel functionalized with propolis-zinc oxide nanoarchitectonics to accelerate wound healing

Using an in situ sol-gel technique, new nanoarchitectonics of propolis loaded zinc oxide nanoarchitectonics (PP/ZnO-NPs) were developed in order to improve the in vivo outcomes of collagen-chitosan gel in wounded rats. The obtained nanoarchitectonics were fully characterized. The XRD results indicate the presence of a Zincite phase for ZnO-NPs and Zincite accompanied by a minor amount of zinc hydroxide for PP/ZnO-NPs samples. While the TEM findings illustrate the transfer of the ZnO-NPs from agglomerated spheres with an average particle size of 230 ± 29 nm to needle-like NPs of 323 ± 173 nm length (PP1/ZnO-NPs) and to a sheet-like NPs of 500 ± 173 nm diameter (PP2/ZnO-NPs). In addition, the incorporation of PP results in an increase in the surface negativity of ZnO-NPs to -31.4 ± 6.4 mV for PP2/ZnO-NPs. The antimicrobial activities of the nanocomposite gel loaded with 10%PP1/ZnO-NPs (G6) revealed the highest inhibition zone against E. coli (26 ± 2.31 mm). Remarkably, the in vivo outcomes showed that the nanocomposite gel (G6) has exceptional collagen deposition, quick wound closure rates, and re-epithelization. The outcomes demonstrate the nanocomposite gel encouraging biological properties for the treatment of damaged and infected wounds.

Techno-functional properties of active film based on guar gum-propolis and its application for "Nanguo" pears preservation

Guar gum (GG) composite films, incorporating the ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP), were prepared and subjected to a comprehensive investigation of their functional characteristics. The addition of EEP resulted in a discernible enhancement in the opacity, moisture barrier capacity, and elongation at break. Incorporating EEP led to a noteworthy increase in the total phenolic and total flavonoid content of the films, resulting in superior antioxidant capacity upon GG-EEP films. Remarkably, the addition of 5 % EEP yielded noteworthy outcomes, manifesting in a DPPH radical scavenging rate of 47.60 % and the ABTS radical scavenging rate of 94.87 %, as well as FRAP and cupric reducing power of 331.98 mmol FeSO4-7H2O kg-1 and 56.95 μg TE mg-1, respectively. In addition, GG-EEP films demonstrated antifungal effect against Penicillium expansum and Aspergillus niger, along with a sustained antibacterial effect against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. GG-EEP films had superior inhibitory ability against Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative bacteria. Crucially, GG-EEP composite films played a pivotal role in reducing both lesion diameter and depth, concurrently mitigating weight loss and firmness decline during the storage period of "Nanguo" pears. Therefore, GG-EEP composite films have the considerable potential to serve as advanced and effective active packaging materials for food preservation.

Exploring the potential of pullulan-based films and coatings for effective food preservation: A comprehensive analysis of properties, activation strategies and applications

Pullulan is naturally occurring polysaccharide exhibited potential applications for food preservation has gained increasing attention over the last half-century. Recent studies focused on efficient preservation and targeted inhibition using active composite ingredients and advanced technologies. This has led to the emergence of pullulan-based biofilm preservation. This review extensively studied the characteristics of pullulan-based films and coatings, including their mechanical strength, water vapor permeability, thermal stability, and potential as a microbial agent. Furthermore, the distinct characteristics of pullulan, production methods, and activation strategies, such as pullulan derivatization, various compounded ingredients (plant extracts, microorganisms, and animal additives), and other technologies (e.g., ultrasound), are thoroughly studied for the functional property enhancement of pullulan-based films and coatings, ensuring optimal preservation conditions for diverse food products. Additionally, we explore hypotheses that further illuminate pullulan's potential as an eco-friendly bioactive material for food packaging applications. In addition, this review evaluates various methods to improve the efficiency of the film-forming mechanism, such as improving the direct coating process, bioactive packaging films, and implementing layer-by-layer coatings. Finally, current analyses put forward suggestions for future advancement in pullulan-based bioactive films, with the aim of expanding their range of potential applications.

Sustainable packaging film based on cellulose nanofibres/pullulan impregnated with zinc-doped carbon dots derived from avocado peel to extend the shelf life of chicken and tofu

A cellulose nanofiber (CNF)/pullulan (PUL) based multifunctional composite film was developed for active packaging applications by incorporating Zn-doped avocado-derived carbon dots (Zn-ACDs). The incorporation of Zn-ACDs improved the interfacial compatibility and produced a dense cross-sectional structure of the composite films. The Zn-ACDs added film showed no significant difference in water vapor permeability and surface hydrophilicity compared to the neat CNF/PUL film, but the tensile strength and elongation at break increased by ~45.4 % and ~64.1 %, respectively. The addition of 5 wt% Zn-ACDs to the CNF/PUL matrix resulted in 100.0 % UV blocking properties, excellent antioxidant activity (100.0 % for ABTS and 68.0 % for DPPH), and complete eradication of foodborne pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 15313 and Escherichia coli O157:H7 after 3 h of exposure. The CNF/PUL composite film with Zn-ACDs applied to the active packaging of chicken and tofu significantly reduced the total growth of aerobic microorganisms without significantly changing the actual color of the packaged chicken and tofu for 9 days at 10°C. This study demonstrates that CNF/PUL composite films with Zn-ACDs are a sustainable and environmentally friendly option for protecting food from microbial contamination.

Production and applications of pullulan from lignocellulosic biomass: Challenges and perspectives

Pullulan is an exopolysaccharide produced by Aureobasidium pullulans, with interesting characteristics which lead to its application in industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and others. To reduce production costs for industrial applications, cheaper raw materials such as lignocellulosic biomass can be utilized as a carbon and nutrient source for the microbial process. In this study, a comprehensive and critical review was conducted, encompassing the pullulan production process and the key influential variables. The main properties of the biopolymer were presented, and different applications were discussed. Subsequently, the utilization of lignocellulosics for pullulan production within the framework of a biorefinery concept was explored, considering the main published works that deal with materials such as sugarcane bagasse, rice husk, corn straw, and corn cob. Next, the main challenges and future prospects in this research area were highlighted, indicating the key strategies to favor the industrial production of pullulan from lignocellulosic biomasses.

The COVID-19 pandemic redefining the mundane food packaging material industry?

COVID-19 pandemic has been the talk of the globe, as it swept across the world population, changing enumerable aspects. The pandemic affected all sectors directly or indirectly. The food sector took a direct hit. The food packaging sector rose to the occasion to serve and feed the pandemic affected, but there were interactions, reactions, and consequences that evolved through the course of the journey through the pandemic. The aim of this perspective is to address the importance of the food packaging industry (from the COVID-19 point of view) and to highlight the unpreparedness of the food packaging materials, for times as these. As the world has been asked to learn to live with Corona, improvisations are definitely necessary, the lapses in the system need to be rectified, and the entire packaging industry has to go through fortification to co-exist with Corona or confront something worse than Corona. This discussion is set out to understand the gravity of the actual situation, assimilating information available from the scattered shreds of reports. Food packaging materials were used, and plastic wastes were generated in bulks, single-use plastics for fear of contamination gained prominence, leading to an enormous turnover of wastes. Fear of Corona, sprayed overloads of sanitizers and disinfectants on food package material surfaces for surface sterilization. The food packages were tailored for food containment needs, never were they planned for sanitizer sprays. The consequences of these sanitization procedures are unprecedented, neglected and in the post-COVID-19 phase no action appears to have been taken. Corona took us by surprise this time, but next time atleast the food packaging industry needs to be fully equipped. Speculated consequences have been reviewed and plausible suggestions have been proposed. The need for extensive research focus in this direction in exploring the ground-reality has been highlighted.

Influence of the Alcohols on the ZnO Synthesis and Its Properties: The Photocatalytic and Antimicrobial Activities

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanomaterials are used in various health-related applications, from antimicrobial textiles to wound dressing composites and from sunscreens to antimicrobial packaging. Purity, surface defects, size, and morphology of the nanoparticles are the main factors that influence the antimicrobial properties. In this study, we are comparing the properties of the ZnO nanoparticles obtained by solvolysis using a series of alcohols: primary from methanol to 1-hexanol, secondary (2-propanol and 2-butanol), and tertiary (tert-butanol). While the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles is successfully accomplished in all primary alcohols, the use of secondary or tertiary alcohols does not lead to ZnO as final product, underlining the importance of the used solvent. The shape of the obtained nanoparticles depends on the alcohol used, from quasi-spherical to rods, and consequently, different properties are reported, including photocatalytic and antimicrobial activities. In the photocatalytic study, the ZnO obtained in 1-butanol exhibited the best performance against methylene blue (MB) dye solution, attaining a degradation efficiency of 98.24%. The comparative study among a series of usual model dyes revealed that triarylmethane dyes are less susceptible to photo-degradation. The obtained ZnO nanoparticles present a strong antimicrobial activity on a broad range of microorganisms (bacterial and fungal strains), the size and shape being the important factors. This permits further tailoring for use in medical applications.

Green synthesis of multifunctional ZnO/chitosan nanocomposite film using wild Mentha pulegium extract for packaging applications

Following the global corona virus pandemic and environmental contamination caused by chemical plastic packaging, awareness of the need for environmentally friendly biofilms and antibacterial coatings is increasing. In this study, a biodegradable hybrid film, comprising of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) with a chitosan (CS) matrix, was fabricated using a simple casting procedure. The ZnO NPs were synthesized using wild Mentha pulegium extract, and the synthesized NPs and films were characterized using different approaches. The structural, morphological, mechanical, antibacterial, and optical properties, as well as the hydrophilicity, of the prepared samples were investigated using various techniques. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry measurements revealed the presence of phenolic compounds in the M. pulegium extract. In addition, a strong coordination connection between Zn²⁺ and the chitosan matrix was confirmed, which resulted in a good dispersion of ZnO in the chitosan film. The surface of the composite films was transparent, smooth, and uniform, and the flexible bio-based hybrid films exhibited significant antibacterial and antioxidant characteristics, strong visible emission in the 480 nm region, and UV-blocking properties. The ZnO/CS films displayed a potential to extend the shelf life of fruits by up to eight days when stored at 23°C, and also acted as an acceptable barrier against oxygen and water. The biodegradable ZnO/CS film is expected to keep fruit fresher than general chemical plastic films and be used for the packaging of active ingredients.

Current Advancements in Pectin: Extraction, Properties and Multifunctional Applications

Pectin is a heterogeneous hydrocolloid present in the primary cell wall and middle lamella in all dicotyledonous plants, more commonly in the outer fruit coat or peel as compared to the inner matrix. Presently, citrus fruits and apple fruits are the main sources for commercial extraction of pectin, but ongoing research on pectin extraction from alternate fruit sources and fruit wastes from processing industries will be of great help in waste product reduction and enhancing the production of pectin. Pectin shows multifunctional applications including in the food industry, the health and pharmaceutical sector, and in packaging regimes. Pectin is commonly utilized in the food industry as an additive in foods such as jams, jellies, low calorie foods, stabilizing acidified milk products, thickener and emulsifier. Pectin is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for the preparation of medicines that reduce blood cholesterol level and cure gastrointestinal disorders, as well as in cancer treatment. Pectin also finds use in numerous other industries, such as in the preparation of edible films and coatings, paper substitutes and foams. Due to these varied uses of pectin in different applications, there is a great necessity to explore other non-conventional sources or modify existing sources to obtain pectin with desired quality attributes to some extent by rational modifications of pectin with chemical and enzymatic treatments.

Gelatin/Cellulose Nanofiber-Based Functional Nanocomposite Film Incorporated with Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

A novel bio-based nanocomposite film was developed using the combination of gelatine and cellulose nanofiber (CNF) as a polymer matrix and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONP) as nanofillers. The nanocomposite film solution was developed using simple solution mixing and film prepared by the following casting methods. The fabricated nanocomposite film containing 2 wt% of ZnONP shows excellent UV-light barrier properties (>95%) and high transparency (>75%). The presence of ZnONP also improves the mechanical strength of the film by ~30% compared to pristine gelatin/CNF-based film, while the flexibility and rigidity of the nanocomposite film were also slightly improved. The addition of ZnONP slightly increased (~10%) the hydrophobicity while the water vapor barrier properties remain unaltered. The hydrodynamic properties of the bio-based film were also changed in the presence of ZnONP, moisture content and the swelling ratio slightly enhanced, whereas water solubility was decreased. Moreover, the integration of ZnONP introduced antibacterial activity toward foodborne pathogens. The fabricated bio-based nanocomposite film could be useful in active packaging applications.

Ciprofloxacin-Loaded Titanium Nanotubes Coated with Chitosan: A Promising Formulation with Sustained Release and Enhanced Antibacterial Properties

Due to their high entrapment efficiency, anodized titanium nanotubes (TiO2-NTs) are considered effective reservoirs for loading/releasing strong antibiotics whose systemic administration is associated with diverse and severe side-effects. In this study, TiO2-NTs were synthesized by anodic oxidation of titanium foils, and the effects of electrolyte percentage and viscosity on their dimensions were evaluated. It was found that as the water content increased from 15 to 30%, the wall thickness, length, and inner diameter of the NTs increase from 5.9 to 15.8 nm, 1.56 to 3.21 µm, and 59 to 84 nm, respectively. Ciprofloxacin, a highly potent antibiotic, was loaded into TiO2-NTs with a high encapsulation efficiency of 93%, followed by coating with different chitosan layers to achieve a sustained release profile. The prepared formulations were characterized by various techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and contact measurement. In vitro release studies showed that the higher the chitosan layer count, the more sustained the release. Evaluation of antimicrobial activity of the formulation against two endodontic species from Peptostreptococcus and Fusobacterium revealed minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 1 µg/mL for the former and the latter. To summarize, this study demonstrated that TiO2-NTs are promising reservoirs for drug loading, and that the chitosan coating provides not only a sustained release profile, but also a synergistic antibacterial effect.

Edible Xanthan/Propolis Coating and Its Effect on Physicochemical, Microbial, and Sensory Quality Indices in Mackerel Tuna (Euthynnus affinis) Fillets during Chilled Storage

Worldwide aquaculture production is increasing, but with this increase comes quality and safety related problems. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop potent technologies to extend the shelf life of fish. Xanthan gum is commonly used in the food industry because of its high-water solubility, stability of its aqueous solutions in a wide pH range, and high viscosity. One of its modern food applications is its use as a gelling agent in edible coatings building. Therefore, in this study, the effect of xanthan coating containing various concentrations (0, 1, 2%; w/v) of ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) on physicochemical, microbial, and sensory quality indices in mackerel fillets stored at 2 °C for 20 days was evaluated. The pH, peroxide value, K-value, TVB-N, TBARS, microbiological and sensory characteristics were determined every 5 days over the storage period (20 days). Samples treated with xanthan (XAN) coatings containing 1 and 2% of EEP were shown to have the highest level of physicochemical protection and maximum level of microbial inhibition (p < 0.05) compared to uncoated samples (control) over the storage period. Furthermore, the addition of EEP to XAN was more effective in notably preserving (p < 0.05) the taste and odor of coated samples compared to control.

Recent advances in biobased and biodegradable polymer nanocomposites, nanoparticles, and natural antioxidants for antibacterial and antioxidant food packaging applications

Inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) and natural antioxidant compounds are an emerging trend in the food industry. Incorporating these substances in biobased and biodegradable matrices as polysaccharides (e.g., starch, cellulose, and chitosan) and proteins has highlighted the potential in active food packaging applications due to more significant antimicrobial, antioxidant, UV blocking, oxygen scavenging, water vapor permeability effects, and low environmental impact. In recent years, the migration of metal NPs and metal oxides in food contact packaging and their toxicological potential have raised concerns about the safety of the nanomaterials. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the main biobased and biodegradable polymer nanocomposites, inorganic NPs, natural antioxidants, and their potential use in active food packaging. The intrinsic properties of NPs and natural antioxidant actives in packaging materials are evaluated to extend shelf-life, safety, and food quality. Toxicological and safety aspects of inorganic NPs are highlighted to understand the current controversy on applying some nanomaterials in food packaging. The synergism of inorganic NPs and plant-derived natural antioxidant actives (e.g., vitamins, polyphenols, and carotenoids) and essential oils (EOs) potentiated the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of biodegradable nanocomposite films. Biodegradable packaging films based on green NPs-this is biosynthesized from plant extracts-showed suitable mechanical and barrier properties and had a lower environmental impact and offered efficient food protection. Furthermore, AgNPs and TiO₂ NPs released metal ions from packaging into contents insufficiently to cause harm to human cells, which could be helpful to understanding critical gaps and provide progress in the packaging field.

Delayed Quality Deterioration of Low-Moisture Cereal-Based Snack by Storing in an Active Filler-Embedded LDPE Zipper Bag

This study focused on controlling the vapor permeability of an active zipper bag and preserving the quality of cereal-based snacks during the storage period at home. The active zipper bag was prepared by extruding low-density polyethylene with active fillers obtained from natural mineral materials. The active zipper bag showed the same transparent appearance as the existing one but showed 21% lower water vapor capability. As a result, during a 20-day storage period, three types of grain-based snacks (biscuits, shortbread cookies, and puffed snacks) showed delayed increases in weight, moisture content, and moisture activity when stored in an active zipper bag. In addition, this also affected the texture of the biscuits and shortbread cookies, in which the area under the curve was reduced significantly after appearing at a peak during the hardness measurement. On the other hand, the decrease in the number of air cell fracture events in puffed snacks was remarkable. This result suggests that the inner microstructure is preserved better when stored in an active zipper bag. In conclusion, the active zipper bag showed poor water vapor permeability, suggesting that the prepared zipper bag can be developed as snack packaging.

Polylactide-Based Films with the Addition of Poly(ethylene glycol) and Extract of Propolis-Physico-Chemical and Storage Properties

Polymeric films based on polylactide (PLA) with the addition of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and a chloroformic extract of propolis were obtained. In the case of the studied films, polylactide (PLA) played the role of polymeric matrix and poly(ethylene glycol) was used as a plasticizer, while the extract of propolis was incorporated as a compound that could significantly affect the properties of the obtained materials, especially the water vapour permeation rate and the stability of the food products. Moreover, changes in structure, morphology, mechanical and storage properties as well as differences in colour, thickness and transparency after introducing propolis into the PLA-PEG system were determined. Based on the obtained results, it was established that the addition of the chloroformic extract of propolis significantly influences the most important properties taken into account during food packaging. It was also noticed that films with incorporated propolis were characterised by a significant improvement in the water vapour barrier property. Moreover, the obtained results prove that packaging containing a chloroformic propolis extract allow for the maintenance of the quality of the fruit stored for an extended period of time. To summarise, the application of a chloroformic propolis extract enables the formation of packaging materials that extend the shelf life of stored food products.

Fabrication of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Pullulan/Gelatin Films Integrated with Grape Seed Extract and Sulfur Nanoparticles

Biopolymer-based functional blend films were prepared using pullulan and gelatin with functional fillers of sulfur nanoparticles (SNPs) and grape seed extract (GSE). A mixture of pullulan/gelatin (1:1) produced a compatible but slightly translucent free-standing film. SNPs capped with enoki mushroom extract and GSE were added as functional fillers to improve the properties (physical and functional) of the pullulan/gelatin-based film. The addition of SNP and GSE significantly (p < 0.05) boosted the UV-light barrier, water vapor barrier, and oxygen barrier properties of the pullulan/gelatin films. The mechanical performance of the pullulan/gelatin-based films was slightly decreased (∼10%), whereas the addition of fillers did not significantly affect the hydrophobicity and thermal stability. The addition of SNP provided the antimicrobial function against foodborne pathogenic bacteria, L. monocytogenes and E. coli, while GSE provided a powerful antioxidant activity to the pullulan/gelatin-based film. Therefore, pullulan/gelatin-based composite films with better UV, water vapor, and oxygen barrier properties and enhanced antioxidant and antibacterial properties are expected to have high utility in active food packaging applications.

Antiviral Biodegradable Food Packaging and Edible Coating Materials in the COVID-19 Era: A Mini-Review

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in late 2019, and the catastrophe faced by the world in 2020, the food industry was one of the most affected industries. On the one hand, the pandemic-induced fear and lockdown in several countries increased the online delivery of food products, resulting in a drastic increase in single-use plastic packaging waste. On the other hand, several reports revealed the spread of the viral infection through food products and packaging. This significantly affected consumer behavior, which directly influenced the market dynamics of the food industry. Still, a complete recovery from this situation seems a while away, and there is a need to focus on a potential solution that can address both of these issues. Several biomaterials that possess antiviral activities, in addition to being natural and biodegradable, are being studied for food packaging applications. However, the research community has been ignorant of this aspect, as the focus has mainly been on antibacterial and antifungal activities for the enhancement of food shelf life. This review aims to cover the different perspectives of antiviral food packaging materials using established technology. It focuses on the basic principles of antiviral activity and its mechanisms. Furthermore, the antiviral activities of several nanomaterials, biopolymers, natural oils and extracts, polyphenolic compounds, etc., are discussed.

Introduction to the Special Issue: Advanced Strategies to Preserve Quality and Extend Shelf Life of Foods

We are pleased to present this Special Issue, which includes 13 papers that highlight the most important research activities in the field of food quality assurance and shelf-life extension [...]

Recent Advancements in Smart Biogenic Packaging: Reshaping the Future of the Food Packaging Industry

Due to their complete non-biodegradability, current food packages have resulted in major environmental issues. Today’s smart consumer is looking for alternatives that are environmentally friendly, durable, recyclable, and naturally rather than synthetically derived. It is a well-established fact that complete replacement with environmentally friendly packaging materials is unattainable, and bio-based plastics should be the future of the food packaging industry. Natural biopolymers and nanotechnological interventions allow the creation of new, high-performance, light-weight, and environmentally friendly composite materials, which can replace non-biodegradable plastic packaging materials. This review summarizes the recent advancements in smart biogenic packaging, focusing on the shift from conventional to natural packaging, properties of various biogenic packaging materials, and the amalgamation of technologies, such as nanotechnology and encapsulation; to develop active and intelligent biogenic systems, such as the use of biosensors in food packaging. Lastly, challenges and opportunities in biogenic packaging are described, for their application in sustainable food packing systems.