a b s t r a c tThe objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of oxidation with sodium hypochlorite at different concentrations of active chlorine (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 g/100 g) on the physicochemical, morphological, pasting, thermal and gel texture properties of potato starch. The native and oxidized starches were used in different concentrations (3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 g starch/100 mL) for the preparation of biodegradable films using glycerol as plasticizer. The films were evaluated for their mechanical properties, color, water solubility and permeability of water vapor. The degree of oxidation potato starches was more intense as there was an increased concentration of active chlorine in the reaction. Films made with oxidized starch with the highest level of active chlorine had lower tensile strength when compared to native starch films. Also, these films had a lower water solubility and water vapor permeability as compared to the native starch films.

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The ultrafine fibers were produced using a polymeric blend of soy protein isolate (SPI), polyethylene oxide (PEO), and zein at a ratio of 1:1:1 (v/v/v) by electrospinning. The ginger essential oil (GEO) was encapsulated in the ultrafine fibers and the morphology, Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, thermal properties and relative crystallinity were evaluated. The antimicrobial activity of ginger essential oil was evaluated against five bacteria (Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli 0157:H7, Salmonella typhimurium, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Based on the preliminary tests, the concentration of GEO selected to add in the polymer solution was 12% (v/v; GEO/polymer solution). The fiber produced with 12% (v/v) GEO was used for antimicrobial analysis and in situ application (in fresh Minas cheese) against L. monocytogenes by micro-atmosphere. The ultrafine fibers produced, regardless the concentration of the essential oil, presented homogeneous morphology with cylindrical shape without the presence of beads. The application of the active fibers containing 12% GEO showed high potential to be applied in food packaging to reduce microbial contamination.