A Comprehensive Characterization of Biodegradable Edible Films Based on Potato Peel Starch Plasticized with Glycerol

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Sustainable Chemistry

Background:

• Potatoes are a significant agricultural product, generating substantial waste.
• Agricultural waste, such as potato peels, can be a source of starch.
• Starch is a renewable resource with potential applications as an eco-friendly alternative to petrochemicals in plastic production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize the bioconversion of potato peel starch (PPS) into films.
• To evaluate the properties of PPS-based films (PPSF) and compare them with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)-based films.
• To assess the potential of PPSF for packaging perishable and cooled foods.

Main Methods:

• Response surface methodology was used to optimize PPS bioconversion.
• PPS films were prepared at varying concentrations (2%, 4%, 6% w/v).
• Microstructure, physical, mechanical, thermal, and biodegradation properties of PPSF were analyzed and compared to CMC films.

Main Results:

• Increased PPS concentration in films led to greater thickness, reduced swelling, water solubility, and vapor permeability.
• Low-starch PPSF demonstrated high transparency, good mechanical strength, and thermal stability (>100 °C).
• PPSF exhibited accelerated biodegradation in seawater (~90% in 20 days) and soil (~90% in 50 days).

Conclusions:

• Potato peel starch is a viable material for developing biodegradable films.
• PPSF possesses favorable characteristics, including biodegradability and thermal stability, suitable for food packaging.
• The study confirms the potential of utilizing agricultural waste for sustainable plastic alternatives.