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Developing Active Modified Starch-Based Films Incorporated with Ultrasound-Assisted Muña (Minthostachys mollis)
José Antonio Flores-Bao1, Luis Jaime Pérez-Córdoba2, Patricia Martínez-Tapia2
1Programa de Doctorado en Ciencia de Alimentos, Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina, Av. La Molina s/n La Molina, Lima 15024, Peru.
Polymers
|January 10, 2026
Summary
This study optimized muña essential oil nanoemulsions (MEO-NE) for active starch films. Optimized MEO-NE enhanced film properties, showing potential for eco-friendly packaging solutions.
Area of Science:
- Food Science and Technology
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Active packaging aims to extend food shelf-life and maintain quality.
- Essential oils offer antimicrobial and antioxidant properties for active films.
- Nanoemulsions improve the dispersion and efficacy of essential oils in food matrices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize muña essential oil nanoemulsion (MEO-NE) using an I-optimal design.
- To incorporate optimized MEO-NE into starch-based films.
- To evaluate the physicochemical and functional properties of the resulting active films.
Main Methods:
- An I-optimal design was employed to optimize MEO-NE formulation (emulsifier concentration, sonication time, essential oil concentration, emulsifier type).
- Muña essential oil nanoemulsions were characterized for droplet size, ζ-potential, and DPPH radical scavenging activity.
- Starch-based films were prepared with varying MEO-NE concentrations (5% and 10%) and evaluated for moisture content, water solubility, water vapor permeability, contact angle, mechanical properties, and biodegradability.
Main Results:
- The optimal MEO-NE formulation consisted of 5.24% muña essential oil, 6% Tween® 80, and 9 min sonication, yielding a droplet size of 48.6 nm, ζ-potential of -15 mV, and 95.6% DPPH inhibition.
- Starch films incorporated with MEO-NE (F1 and F2) showed reduced moisture content, water solubility, and water vapor permeability compared to control films (F0).
- MEO-NE addition increased film stiffness but slightly decreased elongation at yield. All films demonstrated over 90% disintegration within 5 days under composting conditions.
Conclusions:
- Optimized MEO-NE significantly enhances the properties of starch-based films.
- These active films exhibit improved barrier properties and biodegradability.
- The developed MEO-NE incorporated starch films show promise for sustainable and eco-friendly food packaging applications.
