Preparationof Konjac Glucomannan-Based Composite Films Loaded with Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin/Hesperetin Inclusion...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Food Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Active packaging is crucial for extending the shelf life of perishable foods like strawberries.
• Biodegradable films offer sustainable alternatives to conventional plastic packaging.
• Incorporating bioactive compounds into films can impart desirable preservation properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a biodegradable film loaded with a hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin/hesperetin (HP-β-CD/HES) inclusion complex for strawberry preservation.
• To assess the impact of the inclusion complex on the film's barrier, mechanical, UV-shielding, and bioactive properties.
• To determine the effectiveness of the developed active packaging in maintaining strawberry quality during storage.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a KGM/CMC/PVA film loaded with an HP-β-CD/HES inclusion complex.
• Characterization of the film's physical, barrier (water vapor and oxygen permeability), UV-shielding, and mechanical properties.
• Evaluation of the film's antioxidant and antimicrobial activities against relevant foodborne pathogens.
• Assessment of HES release kinetics from the film under high humidity conditions.
• Testing the film's performance in preserving strawberries during storage, comparing it to polyethylene control.

Main Results:

• The HP-β-CD/HES inclusion complex achieved a high encapsulation efficiency (70.41%).
• The loaded film (KCP-HH3) exhibited excellent UV shielding (200-350 nm) and reduced water vapor and oxygen permeability.
• The film demonstrated significant antioxidant (DPPH, ABTS) and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity (E. coli, S. aureus, A. niger).
• Controlled HES release was observed over 7 days at high humidity (82.43%).
• Strawberries packaged with KCP-HH3 showed improved firmness, higher total soluble solids, and reduced weight loss after 12 days compared to polyethylene packaging.

Conclusions:

• The developed HP-β-CD/HES-loaded KGM/CMC/PVA film is a promising active packaging material for enhancing strawberry preservation.
• The film's enhanced barrier, UV-blocking, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties contribute to maintaining fruit quality.
• This biodegradable active packaging offers a sustainable solution for reducing food waste and improving the shelf life of fresh produce.