Assembly of chitosan support matrix with gallic acid-functionalized nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Food Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Chitosan edible films are explored for active compound delivery.
• Gallic acid (GA) is a compound with potential benefits for preservation.
• Incorporating GA into nanoparticles within chitosan films offers improved properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of incorporating gallic acid (GA) via nanoparticles into chitosan edible films.
• To evaluate the impact of nanoencapsulation on GA release kinetics and film properties.
• To assess the antimicrobial efficacy of these functionalized films.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of chitosan-based edible films incorporating gallic acid (GA) directly or via nanoparticles.
• Characterization of film properties including solubility, swelling, and mechanical strength.
• Evaluation of antimicrobial activity against specific bacterial and fungal strains.

Main Results:

• Nanoencapsulation of GA in chitosan films improved solubility, swelling, and mechanical properties.
• Nanoencapsulation allowed for modulated, sustained release of GA over a longer period.
• All tested films demonstrated bacteriostatic activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., and Candida vinaria.

Conclusions:

• Functionalized chitosan films with nanoparticles are promising for tailor-made matrices.
• Nanoencapsulation enables controlled release and enhanced shelf stability of active compounds like GA.
• Active films with nanoparticles show potential for the support and controlled release of gallic acid, offering antimicrobial benefits.