The aim of this work was to develop novel active edible electrospun coatings with antimicrobial properties through the encapsulation of essential oils (EOs) from two widely used spices (Laurus nobilis and Rosmarinus officinalis) for inactivating or reducing spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. Firstly, EOs from dried leaves of both plants were obtained by hydrodistillation and their composition was analysed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Interestingly, the main component in both extracts, probably as a consequence of the extraction conditions, was 1,8 cineole. Both EOs showed highest antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive than Gram-negative bacteria. Three different concentrations of the 1,8 cineole-rich EOs were incorporated within a zein matrix through electrospinning and solution properties, encapsulation yield, morphological and thermal stability of the edible coatings developed were evaluated. Then, the antibacterial efficiency of EOszein nanofibers (ZNF) films against Listeria monocytogenes, S. aureus and mesophilic bacteria counts (MBC) was compared with their counterparts prepared by casting (ZF) when applied directly on an inoculated side of cheese slices. EO obtained from Laurus nobilis showed higher antibacterial activity than Rosmarinus officinalis. The antibacterial effectiveness of the active films increased through storage time, showing a significant reduction of  2 logarithm units of L. monocytogenes and S. aureus as compared with the control samples, after 28 days at 4 ºC, using the highest content of 1,8 cineole-rich EOs and in films prepared by means of the electrospinning process. Interestingly, the growth of aerobic mesophilic bacteria was also inhibited in cheese slices coated with EOs-loaded ZNF based films.

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Meat 4.0 refers to the application the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) technologies in the meat sector. Industry 4.0 components, such as robotics, Internet of Things, Big Data, augmented reality, cybersecurity, and blockchain, have recently transformed many industrial and manufacturing sectors, including agri-food sectors, such as the meat industry. The need for digitalised and automated solutions throughout the whole food supply chain has increased remarkably during the COVID-19 pandemic. This review will introduce the concept of Meat 4.0, highlight its main enablers, and provide an updated overview of recent developments and applications of Industry 4.0 innovations and advanced techniques in digital transformation and process automation of the meat industry. A particular focus will be put on the role of Meat 4.0 enablers in meat processing, preservation and analyses of quality, safety and authenticity. Our literature review shows that Industry 4.0 has significant potential to improve the way meat is processed, preserved, and analysed, reduce food waste and loss, develop safe meat products of high quality, and prevent meat fraud. Despite the current challenges, growing literature shows that the meat sector can be highly automated using smart technologies, such as robots and smart sensors based on spectroscopy and imaging technology.