Sustainable active packaging developed using starch-based foam incorporating 1-Methylcyclopropene@α-Cyclodextrin

Abstract

The preservation of fruit freshness during long-distance transportation frequently faces significant challenges, especially a high risk of spoilage. 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), an effective ethylene inhibitor, is widely used to slow down fruit ripening and maintain freshness. However, achieving a controllable release of 1-MCP is challenging, and traditional carrier materials such as paper, chitosan films, and microcapsules have proven unsatisfactory. Here, we introduced an innovative sustainable packaging featuring a “sandwich” structure based on starch-based foam sheets. The hydrophilic properties and porous structure of the foam ensure the controllable and slow release of 1-MCP. Additionally, its mechanical durability provides a cushioning role to minimize physical damage to fruits during transport process. This method achieves a significant reduction in ethylene production and respiration rates by up to 60.49 % and 57.50 % respectively, leading to an extension of the shelf life of climacteric fruits by 5–10 days. The novel active packaging not only effectively prolongs the shelf life and improves the quality of fruit but is also economical and environmentally friendly due to its biodegradable starch-based composition.