Chitosan Edible Films Enhanced with Pomegranate Peel Extract: Study on Physical, Biological, Thermal, and Barrier Properties

Abstract

In the present study, pomegranate peel extract was used as a reinforcing agent in developing chitosan-based edible film. Different concentrations (0.2 g/mL, 0.4 g/mL, 0.6 g/mL, 0.8 g/mL, and 1.0 g/mL) of pomegranate peel extract were incorporated in chitosan-based edible film. A neat chitosan film was used as a control. This work covers the effect of pomegranate peel extract on the physical, biological, mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties of enriched chitosan-based edible film. The results showed that the thickness (0.142–0.159 mm), tensile strength (32.45–35.23 MPa), moisture (11.23–15.28%), opacity (0.039–0.061%), water (1.32–1.60 g·mm/m2), gas barrier properties (93.81–103.45 meq/kg), phenolic content (5.75–32.41 mg/g), and antioxidant activity (23.13–76.54%) of the films increased with increasing volume fraction of pomegranate peel extract. A higher concentration of incorporated pomegranate peel extracts significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the thermal stability of the film, along with its transparency, solubility, swelling, and color. This work revealed that the incorporation of a higher portion of pomegranate peel extract in chitosan film holds significant (p < 0.05) potential for the increase in biological activities of such films in terms of antioxidant and antimicrobial behavior. The properties of pomegranate peel extract-enriched chitosan films could be an excellent cure for free radicals, whereas they could also inhibit the growth of the foodborne pathogens during the processing and preservation of the food. Further studies are needed for the application of pomegranate peel extract-enriched edible films on food products such as fruits and vegetables in order to extend their storage life and improve the quality and safety of preserved food products.

Characterization and Antifungal Activity of Pullulan Edible Films Enriched with Propolis Extract for Active Packaging

“…Furthermore, lower transparency was noted for films with the highest addition of propolis extract. A similar observation was also made by Kumar et al [ 68 ], who found that the transparency of chitosan film was strongly dependent on the concentration of pomegranate peel extract in film. The changes in the transparency are due to incorporation of plant extracts, which are a natural source of colorants, into the film matrix [ 69 ].…”

Moth Bean, Gelatin, and Murraya Koenigii Leaves Extract-Based Film and Coating: Effect of Coating on Shelf and Quality of Solanum Melongena

“…ME and GA in the film were significantly influenced (P < 0.05) WVP. Similarly, Kumar et al noticed a similar downward trend in the WVP when pomegranate peel extract was mixed into the chitosan film [14]. A decrease in the WVP may be closely associated with twisted paths formed in the film matrix with ME and GA, leading to a reduction in the WVP [15].…”

Evaluating the coating process of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and sodium tripolyphosphate on cucumbers under chilling condition to extend the shelf-life

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