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Biodegradable Quercetin-Incorporated Poly(Lactic Acid)/Chitosan Functional Films: A Study of the Properties and
1Hubei Key Laboratory for Efficient Utilization and Agglomeration of Metallurgic Mineral Resources, College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
Foods (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 28, 2025
Summary
This study developed a biodegradable plastic alternative using poly(lactic acid) and chitosan with quercetin. The active packaging film shows antioxidant, antimicrobial, and biodegradability, extending fish shelf life and indicating freshness.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Food Science
Background:
- Traditional plastics pose environmental and health risks.
- Biodegradable polymers are gaining attention as sustainable alternatives.
- Active packaging enhances food preservation and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop active packaging materials with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and biodegradable properties.
- To utilize poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and chitosan loaded with quercetin.
- To evaluate the film's efficacy in fish preservation and freshness monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of PLA/chitosan/quercetin composite films.
- Assessment of antioxidant activity using ABTS radical scavenging assay.
- Evaluation of antimicrobial properties against *E. coli* and *S. aureus*.
- Testing of oxygen barrier properties and biodegradability.
- Shelf-life studies on fish preservation compared to polyethylene film.
Main Results:
- The film achieved 98.2% ABTS radical scavenging rate.
- Inhibition rates against *E. coli* and *S. aureus* were 87.60% and 80.45%, respectively.
- The composite film demonstrated excellent oxygen barrier properties and biodegradability.
- Fish spoilage was retarded by 2 days compared to commercial polyethylene film.
- Film color change correlated significantly with fish freshness.
Conclusions:
- PLA/chitosan/quercetin composite film offers promising antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
- The film enhances fish preservation and acts as an effective freshness indicator.
- This active packaging has significant application potential in food preservation and intelligent monitoring.
