Corn cob nanocellulose packaging for increasing the shelf life of food products

Studies were carried out to develop eco-friendly Packaging material for the extended shelf-life of food products. The current study sought to improve the coated bioactive film's hydrophobicity and antimicrobial properties by preparing active packaging based on biodegradable Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) containing 1 wt% Nanocellulose (NC) and various loadings of essential oil-prepared nanocomposites. Nanocellulose (NC) from Maize Cob was used as filler in the synthesis of nanopolymers enriched with Thyme oil, Cinnamon oil, clove oil, and Rosemary oil. Characterization of nanopolymer-coated bags and their effect on enhancing the shelf-life of food products in different temperature conditions was also studied. The fabricated nanocomposite and nanocellulose were characterized using FTIR, SEM, XRD, Contact angle, TGA, and Tensile mechanical properties. The fabricated nanocomposite-coated paper cum bag shows good hydrophobic properties as well as antimicrobial and insecticidal properties. The results showed that adding essential oils and dispersing nanocellulose to the PLA matrix strengthened its mechanical qualities as well as its efficacy for biodegradation and antimicrobial properties. The current work provides extremely promising materials for future applications in food packaging applications using sustainable nanocomposite-based biodegradable and antimicrobial coated paper cum bags.