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Updated: Sep 9, 2026

Bacterial Cellulose Spheres that Encapsulate Solid Materials
Published on: February 26, 2021
Multifunctional active packaging based on layer-by-layer engineered chitosan/whey protein-citral coatings on
Shirui Li1, Xinyue Tang1, Wenyu Hui1
1School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212003, Jiangsu, China.
Abstract:
The development of biodegradable active packaging that combines mechanical robustness with sustained antimicrobial functionality remains challenging. This study reports a multifunctional active film integrating a polylactic acid/bacterial cellulose (PLA/BC) composite substrate with surface-confined bioactivity via layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly. Citral-loaded whey protein concentrate and chitosan were sequentially deposited to spatially decouple structural reinforcement from antimicrobial function. The optimized multilayer film exhibited a compact stratified architecture with strong interlayer adhesion, high tensile strength (42.14 MPa), enhanced oxygen barrier performance (peroxide value, 9.11 meq/kg), and pronounced antifungal activity against Penicillium expansum and Aspergillus niger. Moreover, the LbL coating enabled sustained and simulant-responsive citral release, alleviating rapid volatilization associated with bulk incorporation. Bread storage tests demonstrated delayed mold development and improved textural and microstructural stability, resulting in an extended mold-free shelf life relative to uncoated PLA/BC films and commercial polyethylene packaging. Overall, this hierarchical design provides a viable strategy for sustainable active food packaging.
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