Development of linear low‐density polyethylene nanocomposite films for storage of sugarcane juice

Abstract

AbstractSugarcane juice is a cheap and popular product in the beverage industry, with colors varying from light gray to dark green containing abundant amounts of polyphenolic compounds, ascorbic acid, minerals, and pigments. With ample sucrose content, sugarcane juice has evolved as the primary raw material for manufacturing 70% of the world's sugar content. Despite having high nutritional value, the shelf life of juice is a severe concern owing to the onset of microbial activities, which speeds up the fermentation process immediately after the extraction, which calls for appropriate packaging for delaying the qualitative degradation. For this purpose, the physicochemical properties, microbial stability, and color properties of “Mandya” variety sugarcane juice was ascertained upon storage in developed nanocomposite films made of linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) by varying the levels of compatibilizer, nanoclay, and thickness. Upon evaluating the results, it was observed that the critical physicochemical attributes, namely, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, total sugars, and overall acceptability, were found to decrease with an increase in the level of nanoclay and compatibilizer and decrease in film thickness. Zero plate counts were observed till day 15 of storage, and a gradual increase was noticed in the further days. Correspondingly, an increase in the overall color difference with the progression of storage also occurred. It was concluded from the analysis that film of 100 μm thickness prepared from a combination of 93% LLDPE, 5% compatibilizer, and 2% nanoclay gave superior shelf life, minimum change in quality parameters, and least microbial population in sugarcane juice.Practical ApplicationFruit juice industries are interested in using packaging films with high tensile strength and low permeability instead of expensive glass bottles. Nanocomposite technology could be an effective tool for developing high‐barrier packaging material. LLDPE has many applications for developing both rigid form and flexible films. Most research studies on sugarcane juice preservation are confined to bottling, and there is a scarcity of information on the storage of sugarcane juice in pouches. In this context, the goal of the present study is to develop a cost‐effective packaging technology for the storage of sugarcane juice.