Abstract
The non-antibacterial and relatively poor mechanical properties of sodium alginate film limit its application for fresh-cut fruit packaging. The phenolic compound thymol has prominent antioxidant and antibacterial activities. The physical and functional properties of thymol/sodium alginate composite films and their ability to preserve fresh-cut apples were investigated. Thymol/sodium alginate composite films were observed to have high tensile strength, elongation at break and UV–vis light blocking capability, but low water vapor permeability, water solubility, and swelling ratio compared with standard sodium alginate film without thymol. The composite films also showed notable scavenging activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radicals. In addition, the composite films exhibited remarkable inhibition of the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Furthermore, thymol/sodium alginate films could effectively reduce weight loss, retain nutrition and surface color of fresh-cut apple slices. Therefore, sodium alginate films with thymol have strong potential as a cling wrap material used in the packaging of fresh-cut fruits.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
