Utilization of novel bacteriocin synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for their application in antimicrobial packaging for preservation of tomato fruit

Abstract

IntroductionThe current need of the food industry is to develop a safe packaging system that maintains the quality of food and prevents its spoilage. Food safety techniques improvised using functional nanoparticles minimize the chances of spoilage by maintaining moisture stability, mechanical strength, and durability and ensuring product safety. In the present study, we synthesized silver nanoparticles using purified bacteriocins obtained from probiotics. Bacteriocin-synthesized AgNPs are eco-friendly and secure packaging solutions that can be utilized in the packaging industry for the storage of food products.MethodsCrude, partially purified and purified bacteriocin was obtained from three potential probiotic isolates, i.e., Lactobacillus pentosus S6 (KU92122), Lactobacillus crustorum F11 (KT865221) and Lactobacillus spicheri G2 (JX481912). The antimicrobial efficacy of bacteriocin was tested against two food-borne spoilage-causing pathogens, i.e., Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus. The purified bacteriocin obtained was used for the synthesis of AgNPs. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, TEM, and SEM techniques. The AgNPs were used for coating cellulose paper. The coated paper was characterized using SEM and was used for the storage of tomato fruit.Results and discussionThe purified bacteriocin obtained was used for the synthesis of AgNPs. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by using UV-vis spectroscopy, which showed maximum absorption at 450 nm. Furthermore, we confirm shape and morphology by using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis showed the mean size of synthesized AgNPs in the range of 5–20 nm. Bacteriocin-synthesized AgNPs were then used for the coating of cellulose paper with the main motive to avoid spoilage and enhance the shelf stability of tomato fruit during storage. SEM analysis confirmed the coating of AgNPs in the cellulose paper. The enhanced antimicrobial efficacy of different treatments coated paper was observed against B. cereus and S. aureus. Out of all, F11 AgNPs coated paper showed maximum inhibition of 24 mm for S. aureus and 22 mm for B. cereus. The coated paper from three different bacteriocin-synthesized AgNPs, along with silver nitrate (AgNO3) coated and uncoated paper, was used for the storage of tomato fruit for a period of 10 days at room temperature. Changes during storage were determined by analyzing morphological and color changes. Compared to AgNO3 coated and uncoated paper, tomato fruit preserved in F11 AgNPs coated paper maintained and held its appearance and firmness, thereby confirming their effectiveness in the preservation of tomatoes.

Silver Nanoparticles in Food Bio Packaging. A Short Review

“…The silver nanoparticles were synthesized using purified bacteriocins (peptides or proteins with biocidal activity) produced by the probiotics Lactobacillus pentosus, Lactobacillus crustorum, and Lactobacillus spicheri. The paper covered in this way demonstrated antimicrobial activity against the pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Bacilluscereus agents, maintaining its freshness and firmness for 10 days at room temperature (18 -20°C) [13].…”

Exploring the untapped potential of naturally occurring antimicrobial compounds: novel advancements in food preservation for enhanced safety and sustainability

“…Notably, the addition of 2000 IU/g of nisin to cottage cheese extended its storage life, resulting in a significant reduction in the L. monocytogenes population by a factor of 1,000 after 7 days of storage at 20°C, compared to a 10-fold reduction observed in the control group. Sharma et al (2023) synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using bacteriocins from probiotics (Lactobacillus pentosus S6, Lactobacillus crustorum F11, and Lactobacillus spicheri G2). These eco-friendly AgNPs were applied to cellulose paper for packaging tomatoes, with F11 AgNPs-coated paper demonstrating superior antimicrobial efficacy.…”

“…Synthetic additives may have environmental implications during production, use, and disposal. Natural antimicrobials, being derived from renewable resources, offer a more sustainable alternative, reducing the ecological footprint associated with food preservation practices (Sharma et al, 2023).…”

Review on sterilization techniques, and the application potential of phage lyase and lyase immobilization in fighting drug-resistant bacteria

“…41 Ludmila et al 42 modified the chitosan-based membrane by adding ZnO and AgNPs loaded with citronella essential oil to enhance the antibacterial activity of the nanocomposite films, ensuring strong antibacterial activity against fungal and bacterial strains. Sharma et al 43 obtained purified bacteriocins from probiotics to synthesize AgNPs, and then coated them on cellulose paper. AgNP-coated paper was used to store tomato fruit, which delayed microbial decomposition and increased the shelf life of tomato fruit.…”