Nuvoli D, Montevecchi G, Lovato F, Masino F, Van Der Borght M, Messori M, Antonelli A. Protein films from black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens, Diptera: Stratiomyidae) prepupae: effect of protein solubility and mild crosslinking.
J Sci Food Agric 2021;
101:4506-4513. [PMID:
33449403 DOI:
10.1002/jsfa.11091]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
This work evaluated the performances of protein-based bioplastics obtained from black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) prepupae. Protein films were synthesized by film casting, using both the whole proteins and their soluble fraction at pH = 10. The effects of glycerol as a plasticizer and of citric acid as a mild crosslinker on film properties were also evaluated.
RESULTS
Films obtained using the soluble protein fraction were the strongest, as well as the most homogeneous and transparent ones. Protein mild crosslinking improved film tensile properties, especially in films obtained with the whole protein fraction. Non-crosslinked samples had a high affinity with water while crosslinking almost eliminated the ability of films to absorb water. All protein-based films proved to be effective barriers to red light (transmittance less than 2%).
CONCLUSIONS
Bioplastics derived from black soldier fly prepupae may find applications in the agricultural sector (biodegradable pots, mulching films, utensils) and deserve to be tested for food and non-food packaging. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
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