Biodegradable Packaging Research Articles

Influence of the microstructure in the biodegradability process of eco‐friendly materials based on polylactic acid and mango seed for food packaging to minimize microplastic generation

AbstractIn this research, mango parts (kernel and integument) were loaded into a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix by a casting process to develop biocomposite materials. These materials should present improved mechanical and thermal properties and have the potential to be used as environmentally friendly, biodegradable food packaging material with extended shelf life. For this purpose, the research was divided into two parts: step 1, ground materials of a certain particle size from a previous work1 and step 2, which are the materials from Step 1 ground again. The samples were characterized by x‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), laser granulometry, texture tests, and thermal analysis. The difference between them was particle size distribution, impacting the materials' mechanical strength and degradation rate. Three biocomposites were made (PLA/kernel, PLA/integument, and PLA/kernel/integument) in both steps. SEM was used to observe the size distribution of the mango seed and sample morphology. In addition, resistance values increased with the addition of kernel or integument particles. Biocomposite biodegradability was also evaluated. Based on the results of this study, the biocomposites showed high mechanical properties and thermal stability, making them suitable for applications such as food packaging and structural components to help reduce environmental loads and microplastic generation.

Production of Polyhydroxyalkanoates for Biodegradable Food Packaging Applications Using Haloferax mediterranei and Agrifood Wastes.

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are high-value biodegradable polyesters with thermoplastic properties used in the manufacturing of different products such as packaging films. PHAs have gained much attention from researchers and industry because of their biobased nature and appropriate features, similar to conventional synthetic plastics. This review aims to discuss some of the recent solutions to challenges associated with PHA production. The implementation of a cost-effective process is presented by following different strategies, such as the use of inexpensive carbon sources, the selection of high-producing microorganisms, and the functionalization of the final materials to make them suitable for food packaging applications, among others. Research efforts are needed to improve the economic viability of PHA production at a large scale. Haloferax mediterranei is a promising producer of PHAs due to its ability to grow in non-sterile conditions and the possibility of using seawater to prepare the growth medium. Additionally, downstream processing for PHA extraction can be simplified by treating the H. mediterranei cells with pure water. Further research should focus on the optimization of the recycling conditions for the effluents and on the economic viability of the side streams reutilization and desalinization as an integrated part of PHA biotechnological production.

Enhanced carbohydrate-based plastic performance by incorporating cerium-based metal-organic framework for food packaging application

The development of biodegradable active packaging films with hydrophobic characteristics is vital for extending the shelf life of food and reducing the reliance on petroleum-based plastics. In this study, novel hydrophobic cerium-based metal-organic framework (Ce-MOF) nanoparticles were successfully synthesized. The Ce-MOF nanoparticles were then incorporated into the cassava starch matrix at varying concentrations (0.5 %, 1.5 %, 3 %, and 4 % w/w of total solid) to fabricate cassava-based active packaging films via the solution casting technique. The influence of Ce-MOF on the morphology, thermal attributes, and physicochemical properties of the cassava film was subsequently determined through further analyses. Biomedical analysis including antioxidant activity and the cellular morphology evaluation in the presence of the films was also conducted. The results demonstrated that the consistent dispersion of Ce-MOF nanofillers within the cassava matrix led to a significant enhancement in the film's crystallinity, thermal stability, antioxidant activity, biocompatibility, and hydrophobicity. The introduction of Ce-MOF also contributed to the film's reduced water solubility. Considering these outcomes, the developed cassava/Ce-MOF films undoubtedly have significant potential for active food packaging applications.

Antibacterial and cytotoxic performance of methenamine‐based poly(lactic acid)/poly(ethylene glycol) (PLA/PEG) composite films

AbstractIn this study, antimicrobial plasticized poly(lactic acid) (PLA) films by incorporating poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and methenamine (MA) were prepared by solvent casting method. We investigated the effects of different concentrations of MA on the antimicrobial properties against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) which were types of gram‐negative and gram‐positive bacteria in turn. It was determined that as the rate of MA in the PLA/PEG film enhanced, its antimicrobial activity against both bacteria also increased. As a result, the maximum inhibitory effect for E. coli was seen in MA5, MA8, and M10 films, and it reduced the bacterial population by 100%. In S. aureus, the high inhibition effect was seen in the MA8 film, and it reduced the bacterial population by 95%. Moreover, as the MA concentration increases, the thermal stability of PLA/PEG films increases and approaches the thermal decomposition temperature of neat PLA. The incorporation of 0.5% MA to this system caused a significant increase in elongation at break values. It is concluded that a minimum concentration of MA is sufficient for high flexibility compared with pure PLA. These MA containing PLA/PEG composite films have potential applications as biodegradable flexible packaging materials.

From Fields to Films: Exploring Starch from Agriculture Raw Materials for Biopolymers in Sustainable Food Packaging

In the wake of escalating global concerns over the environmental impact of plastic pollution, there has been an unprecedented call for sustainable alternatives. The food-packaging industry, responsible for a staggering 40% of global plastic consumption, faces mounting challenges driven by environmental degradation and concerns about fossil fuel depletion. Motivated by these challenges, there is a growing interest in reducing reliance on traditional packaging and exploring eco-friendly solutions derived from renewable resources. Eco-efficient packaging, specifically derived from agricultural raw materials, emerges as a promising solution that aligns with ecological, economic, and social sustainability principles. Starch, abundant and versatile, emerges as a frontrunner among agricultural raw materials for biopolymers. Its inherent properties, including low cost, availability, biodegradability, and biocompatibility, make it a compelling choice. Starch-based bioplastics, with their potential to replace synthetic primary packaging materials, have gained traction due to their satisfactory mechanical and barrier properties. This review delves into the realm of starch-based films and coatings for food applications. It explores fundamental properties, advantages, and limitations, offering insights into potential improvements through various treatments or additive combinations. As technological advances drive the popularity of biodegradable starch-based packaging, this review aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse, providing a comprehensive overview and paving the way for more functional and widely applicable products in the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable packaging.

Utilization of Palm Oil Waste into Liquid Smoke in Cellulose Commercial Starch Nano Fiber Composite as Antimicrobial Substances in the Manufacturing of Food Packaging

The high demand for plastic use today will result in environmental damage because the plastic that is widely used cannot be broken down. This plastic waste is dangerous for the sustainability of the food chain, pollutes water and soil, causes global warming, and causes air pollution. This research synthesizes a cellulose nanofiber composite with commercial starch in a 1:1 ratio with the influence of the addition of smoke liquid from palm oil waste. This research aims to process cellulose nanocomposite fibers combined with commercial starch and use them in biodegradable plastic by testing the effect of giving smoke liquid on the development of microbial substances in environmentally friendly biodegradable plastic food packaging. So the resulting product is expected to have the potential to reduce dependence on the use of synthetic plastic. This research aims to determine the optimum concentration of liquid acid from empty oil palm fruit bunches as an antimicrobial agent in the resulting bioplastic. The addition of liquid smoke changes the bioplastic properties of FTIR and XRD the attractive strength of bioplastic. The sample with the highest concentration of liquid smoke had the greatest tensile strength (2.34 MPa). The addition of liquid smoke concentration from empty oil palm shells showed a good inhibitory area for the development of bacillus cereus (10.8 mm).
 Keywords: liquid smoke, plastic biodegradable, food packaging, antimicrobial

Investigation into the characteristics of bagasse processed with 3C-DES and the production of chemimechanical pulp for pulp molded

Pulp molded generated from renewable bagasse as biodegradable packaging materials has been widely viewed as an eco-friendly and cheap way to substitute the current huge consumption of nondegradable plastics, and deep eutectic solvents (DES) pretreatment are a promising approach to obtain high-yield pulp efficiently and sustainably. However, mainstream binary-component DES still suffers issues of high viscosity and corrosiveness. This study put forward a ternary-component DES (3C-DES) with the addition of ethylene glycol (EG) into choline chloride (ChCl) and P-toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA) and examined pretreatment performance and optimal DES ratio for thread rolling bagasse via compositional analysis and physicochemical characterization. Moreover, density functional theory calculations were used to reveal structures and weak interactions of different ratios of 3C-DES, and a novel 3C-DES pretreatment chemical-mechanical pulp and pulp molded were finally prepared. The results indicate that the 3C-DES with ChCl:PTSA:EG molar ratio of 1:1:3 is most effective, evidenced by more than 97.94% lignin removals. The 3C-DES pretreated mechanical pulp exhibits superior fiber properties, whereas the hot-pressed pulp molded shows excellent physical properties and thermal stability. Thus, the proposed 3C-DES has great potential to obtain high-yield high-performance pulp molded with low cost and environmental sustainability.

Development of a biodegradable packaging with antimicrobial properties from cassava starch by incorporating Ocimum tenuiflorum extract

Cassava starch based biodegradable films with antimicrobial properties were developed by the casting technique with the addition of Ocimum tenuiflorum organic extract (0 to 3 %). Tensile Strength (TS), Elongation at break (EB), Young modulus (YM), Thickness, Colour, Transmittance, Water solubility, Moisture content, Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR), Antimicrobial effect, Biodegradability, Thermal stability, Cyanide content, Compound analysis and Tendency of compound migration were evaluated in those films compared to a control sample. The plant extract contributed to increasing the moisture content, thickness, water solubility and WVTR while reducing EB and transmittance of the films significantly (p < 0.05). TS and YM didn't show any significant difference among samples. The addition of Ocimum tenuiflorum extract improved the antimicrobial effect of films and remarkably inhibited the microbial growth in apple samples. According to the GC-MS analysis, the main responsible compounds for the antimicrobial effect were determined as Eucalyptol and Caryophyllene. The developed films showed high biodegradability (75.42±0.51 %), good thermal stability (300 °C), negligible cyanide content and no compound migration to the food sample. Ocimum tenuiflorum incorporated cassava starch films have a great potential as a novel active food packaging and a good substitute for plastic food wrappings.

Biodegradable films from the lignocellulosic fibers of wheat straw biomass and the effect of calcium ions

Plastics are hazardous to human health, and plastic waste results in environmental pollution and ecological catastrophe. Biobased polymers from renewable sources have recently become promising for developing biodegradable packaging films. Among them, lignocellulosic residue from agricultural biomass is inexpensive, renewable, and biodegradable. This study aims to develop biodegradable films using lignocellulosic residue from wheat straw biomass. The methodology is a green process that solubilizes lignocellulosic chains using Zn2+ ions and crosslinks with Ca2+ ions of different concentrations (200–800 mM). The results reveal that the increase of Ca2+ ions significantly decreases moisture content, water solubility, water vapor permeability, transparency, and elongation of films. The tensile strength is recorded as 6.61 ± 0.07 MPa with the addition of 800 mM of CaCl2, which is approximately 2.5 times higher than commercial polyethylene films. Around 90 % of films biodegrade within a month in soil containing 20 % moisture content. Overall, lignocellulosic residue from wheat straw biomass could be an excellent replacement for synthetic polymer to fabricate strong, transparent, and biodegradable plastic films.

Cellulose nanocrystals engineered TPS/PBAT granulation through extrusion process and application for compostable carry bags

An economical and scalable process route has been developed for preparation of bio nanofillers, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) using acid hydrolysis and ceramic membrane-based continuous neutralization process alternative to conventional dialysis process. Optimized process achieved 42 % yield with crystallinity index of 91.3 % and average size 20–50 nm as confirmed by TEM analysis. Solid-state NMR result shows that the CNCs lateral dimension is comparable to elementary cellulose crystallites. Prior optimized composition of CNCs (Kesari et al., 2022) in TPS was used to prepare bio-nanocomposite with aim to reduced Poly (butylene adipate co-terephthalate) (PBAT) content in packaging films. A strong evolution in the mechanical and rheological properties of the CNCs reinforced blends was observed with increase in PBAT content with optimum blending ratio of 70/30. The composite attained tensile strength and young’s modulus of 11.01 ± 0.15 and 1200.94 ± 16 MPa, respectively with water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of 63.96 ± 1.02 g/m2/day than neat PBAT (124.56 ± 6.89) which has higher vapor permeation. The thermal analysis confirms with bio nanofillers addition reduced the processing temperature of the polymeric blend. Thus, this work provides an economical and sustainable pathway for high content of biobased carbon (>70 %) for biodegradable packing industry.

PBAT/PLA food packaging film containing sodium dehydroacetate-loaded diatomite as an antibacterial agent: Fabrication, water-gas regulation and long-acting antimicrobial mechanism

Biodegradable food packaging films with good antimicrobial properties are highly sought after for prolonging the shelf-life of fruits and vegetables whilst minimizing waste streams originating from the food sector. In this work, a series of PBAT/PLA food packaging films containing sodium dehydroacetate-loaded diatomite (SD/D) as an antimicrobial agent were fabricated. Structural analyses showed that the sodium dehydroacetate was incorporated into the pores of the diatomite. A uniform dispersion of SD/D in the composite films effectively enhanced water and gas permeability, whilst also giving the films good mechanical properties. The slow release of SD endowed the composite films with long-acting antibacterial ability (>90 % bacteriostasis rate for E. coli and >85 % bacteriostasis rate for S. aureus). The composite films were able to effectively maintain the quality of banana fruits during storage at room temperature, encouraging their use in food applications where non-biodegradable petrochemical-derived packaging films have traditionally been used.

Konjac glucomannan/polyvinyl alcohol/citric acid–based active food-packaging films containing Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharide

Biodegradable active packaging has recently attracted attention owing to its ability to solve environmental and food safety problems associated with traditional petroleum-based packaging. Herein, novel active food-packaging films were prepared using konjac glucomannan (KGM)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/citric acid (CA) composites containing Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharide (PSP) as the active agent. The effects of various PSP contents on the structure, physical properties and functionality of the composite films were investigated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy results revealed that hydrogen bonding within the films strengthened with increasing PSP content. X-ray diffraction results revealed that the addition of PSP improved the crystallinity of the composite films, and the tensile strength of the composite films reached the optimum when the PSP content is 0.2 %. Furthermore, at low contents (≤0.2 %), PSP was uniformly distributed in the composite films and exhibited good barrier, UV-shielding and antimicrobial properties. All composite films exhibited good antioxidant performance.The best sample (the composite film containing 0.2 % PSP) was successfully used for packaging strawberries; this film reduced the weight loss and extended the shelf life of strawberries. Thus, the fabricated films containing PSP have broad application prospects in food packaging.

Characterization of biodegradable bi‐layer films from thermoplastic starch and poly‐l‐lactic acid

AbstractThis study aimed to enhance the oxygen barrier properties of polylactic acid (PLA) film, a biodegradable packaging material with high oxygen permeability (OP). Bi‐layer films were produced by coating thermoplastic starch (TPS) onto PLA films in various ratios while maintaining constant film thickness. The mechanical, optical, barrier, thermal, hydrophobicity, moisture sorption, and microstructural properties of the films were analyzed. Increasing the TPS ratio elevated moisture content (MC), water uptake, solubility, and opacity while enhancing UV barrier properties. TPS coating reduced tensile and burst strength but increased the burst deformation of the bi‐layer films. Bi‐layer film production resulted in a water vapor permeability increase of 59.26%–94.44% compared with neat PLA while decreasing OP by 2.52%–29.66%. The equilibrium moisture content (EMC) rose with higher TPS ratios, displaying type II isotherms. FTIR analysis indicated no chemical interactions between PLA and TPS. Increasing the TPS ratio decreased PLA crystallinity, supporting the mechanical and barrier properties of the bi‐layer films. Neat and bi‐layer films exhibited smooth, homogeneous surfaces, with a visible interface in the cross‐section of the bi‐layer films. In conclusion, TPS shows promise as an alternative to improve oxygen barrier properties in PLA films without adversely affecting other properties.

Biodegradable packing food films based on PBAT containing ZnO and MoO3

AbstractMolybdenum trioxide (MoO3) and zinc oxide (ZnO) were incorporated into the poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) matrix using casting method to obtain packing films for food transportation with outstanding properties and no formation of microplastics. Consequently, these films were evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, time domain and carbon‐13 nuclear magnetic resonance, x‐ray diffraction, contact angle measurement, and thermogravimetric analysis. The light barrier properties of the films were analyzed using transmittance mode in UV–VIS–NIR regions and the contact angle of composite films exhibited greater hydrophilicity compared to the pure polymer films. Regardless of the concentration, the fillers did not significantly modify the degradation onset temperature and the temperature of maximum degradation rate. However, ZnO caused a new thermal degradation event (around 330°C) that was not observed in the other films, possibly due to the second crystallization process. Composite films filled with 0.3% ZnO, 0.3% and 0.5% MoO3 showed greater molecular homogeneity than the pure polymer matrix, with the PBAT/MoO3 films demonstrating even greater homogeneity than PBAT/ZnO films; this response presumably comes from the satisfactory intermolecular interaction or adequate dispersion and distribution of the particles. The addition of 0.5% MoO3 in the matrix influenced the PBAT film, resulting in amorphous materials with the highest molecular mobility and opacity. Besides, in view of antimicrobial tests, all nanocomposites showed potential bacteriostatic activity. So, it can be conveniently used for food transportation and may avoid microplastic formation, after been discarded.

Sustainable packaging innovations and their impact on HSE practices in the FMCG industry

Sustainable packaging innovations have emerged as a critical avenue for addressing environmental concerns and enhancing operational efficiency within the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry. This review delves into the multifaceted impact of sustainable packaging innovations on Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) practices within this sector. With the escalating global focus on environmental sustainability, FMCG companies are increasingly integrating sustainable packaging solutions into their operations. These innovations encompass a spectrum of approaches, including recyclable materials, biodegradable packaging, lightweight designs, and renewable resources. Such initiatives aim to mitigate the adverse environmental effects associated with traditional packaging practices, such as excessive waste generation and carbon emissions. The adoption of sustainable packaging innovations profoundly influences HSE practices in the FMCG industry. Firstly, it fosters a culture of environmental responsibility, prompting companies to prioritize eco-friendly materials and production processes. This shift aligns with regulatory standards and societal expectations, reducing the ecological footprint of FMCG products while enhancing brand reputation. Moreover, sustainable packaging innovations significantly impact health and safety aspects within FMCG operations. By reducing the reliance on non-biodegradable materials and hazardous substances, companies minimize occupational health risks for workers involved in packaging production and handling. Furthermore, lightweight packaging designs contribute to safer transportation and distribution practices, mitigating the likelihood of accidents and injuries along the supply chain. The integration of sustainable packaging innovations also engenders operational efficiencies within FMCG companies. Through optimization of packaging materials and processes, organizations can achieve cost savings, resource conservation, and enhanced supply chain resilience. These benefits bolster long-term competitiveness and profitability while reinforcing the commitment to HSE principles. Sustainable packaging innovations represent a transformative force within the FMCG industry, reshaping HSE practices and fostering a paradigm of environmental stewardship. As companies continue to prioritize sustainability in packaging strategies, they stand to realize tangible benefits in terms of regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and brand differentiation. This review underscores the imperative for FMCG stakeholders to embrace sustainable packaging innovations as a cornerstone of responsible business practice in the 21st century.

Upcycling agricultural byproducts into eco-friendly food packaging

This investigation looks at the transformative potential of upcycling agricultural waste to make ecologically friendly food packaging. Agricultural wastes, which are frequently ignored, might be valuable resources in reversing the sustainable destiny of the packaging sector. We review recent research on plant-based byproducts, including proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, pigments, and minerals, that are isolated from agricultural waste. Creating edible and (bio)degradable packaging solutions that can include biobased active components, including flavorings, antioxidants, and antimicrobials, can begin with these compounds. Utilizing plant fibers from agricultural waste reduces environmental contamination while increasing packing efficiency. The review concentrates on packaging solutions that are good for the environment, like edible coatings and films with antioxidant and antibacterial qualities and active packaging made of phenolic chemicals. These innovations, derived from various foods and agricultural waste, satisfy customer demand for premium foods with longer shelf lives. A practical way to lessen the excessive use of non-biodegradable plastics is to create edible materials, especially in light of the global push for sustainability. These formulations can enhance food packaging performance since they are made from biowastes and biopolymers. Our comprehensive research synthesizes existing knowledge to shed light on the extraction, processing, and application of agricultural byproducts in packaging materials. The broad spectrum includes regulatory systems, processing techniques, biodegradability parameters, and the properties of various byproducts. By providing an all-encompassing viewpoint, this evaluation draws attention to current achievements and indicates avenues for more research and development. It provides a roadmap for the ecologically friendly upcycling of agricultural waste into sustainable food packaging, which helps to shift the packaging industry's paradigm continuously.

Seaweed: a sustainable solution for greening drug manufacturing in the pursuit of sustainable healthcare

The environmental impact of drug manufacturing raises concerns about sustainability in healthcare. To address this, exploring alternative approaches to drug production is crucial. This review focuses on seaweed as a sustainable resource for greening drug manufacturing processes. Seaweed offers advantages such as renewability, abundance, and a positive environmental footprint. The review begins by providing an overview of sustainable drug manufacturing practices and the challenges faced in achieving sustainability. It then discusses seaweed as a sustainable resource, including cultivation techniques and environmental benefits. Seaweed has various applications in drug manufacturing, including extracting and purifying bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic properties. Seaweed’s role in developing green technologies, such as seaweed-based excipients, biodegradable packaging materials, and as a source of sustainable energy for drug manufacturing processes, is highlighted. The environmental and economic implications of incorporating seaweed-based solutions are discussed, emphasizing reduced carbon footprint and cost-effectiveness. Regulatory and industrial perspectives are addressed, examining challenges, and opportunities for implementing seaweed-based drug manufacturing. Collaboration between academia, industry, and regulatory bodies is crucial for successful integration. The review presents future directions and opportunities, including emerging trends and innovations in seaweed-based drug manufacturing, areas for further research, policy development, and industry engagement recommendations. Incorporating seaweed into drug production facilitates a reduction in environmental impact, promotes resource efficiency, and contributes to sustainable healthcare. This review showcases seaweed-based solutions as a means to foster a greener future for drug manufacturing, addressing environmental concerns, and promoting sustainability.

Development of active packaging material based on polycaprolactone/hydroxypropyl methylcellulose nanofibers containing carbon dot nanoparticles for meat preservation

This work demonstrates the feasibility of using a combination of biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL) and natural-based hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) polymers containing carbon dots (CDs) for food packaging applications. CDs were synthesized using the insoluble portion of Zedo gum. The 5% and 15% concentrations of bare Zedo CDs (Z-CD) and nitrogen and sulfur co-doped CDs (TZ-CD) were chosen for incorporation into PCL/HPMC nanofibers (NFs). The PCL/HPMC/Z-CD15% and PCL/HPMC/TZ-CD15% demonstrated improved tensile strength (12.88 and 15.01 MPa), water solubility (30.20 and 42.36%), and water vapor transmittance (0.62 and 0.71 g mm/m2 h kPa)), respectively. When comparing the release of CDs in 10%, 50%, and 95% ethanolic solutions, it was found that TZ-CD released more rapidly than Z-CD from NFs in all three simulants. The CDs-added NFs exhibited potent antioxidant activity (80.5%). More significant antimicrobial activity against S. aureus was observed compared to E. coli. Additionally, reductions in total volatile basic nitrogen and thiobarbituric acid values indicated that beef covered with PCL/HPMC/TZ-CD15% and PCL/HPMC/Z-CD15% NFs had an extended shelf life of more than five days. In conclusion, PCL/HPMC/Z-CD15% and PCL/HPMC/TZ-CD15% NFs can be used as promising biodegradable packaging materials to enhance the shelf life of meat products.

Preparation and characterization of biodegradable food packaging films using lemon peel pectin and chitosan incorporated with neem leaf extract and its application on apricot fruit

The present study aims to develop and characterize biodegradable packaging films from lemon peel-derived pectin and chitosan incorporated with a bioactive extract from neem leaves. The films (PCNE) contained varying concentrations of neem leaf extract and were comprehensively assessed for their physical, optical, mechanical, and antimicrobial attributes. The thickness, moisture content, water solubility, and water vapor permeability of the biodegradable packaging films increased with the increasing concentration of neem leaf extract. Comparatively, the tensile strength of the films decreased by 42.05 % compared to the control film. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) confirmed that the resultant blended pectin-chitosan films showed a uniform structure without cracks. Furthermore, the analysis targeting Staphylococcus aureus and Aspergillus niger indicated that the films had potent antimicrobial activity. Based on these results, the optimum films were selected and subsequently applied on apricot fruits to increase their shelf life at ambient temperature. The findings, after examining factors such as colour, firmness, total soluble solids, shrinkage, weight loss, and appearance, concluded that the apricots coated by PCNE-5 had the most delayed signs of spoilage and increased their shelf life by 50 %. The results showed the potential applicability of lemon peel pectin-chitosan-neem leaf extract blend films in biodegradable food packaging.

Modification of Cassava Peel Starch, Substituting Chitosan and Seaweed: Production of High Quality Edible Film

Biodegradable packaging materials from biomass have been proven to be effective and efficient in improving the quality of materials food because it has the advantages of long shelf life, biodegradable, safe for health and cheap easy to use. The aim of the research is to determine the best formulation and water vapor rate properties as well as the mechanical properties of edible film based on cassava peel starch with the addition of palm oil and chitosan. The method used to determine the best formulation of edible film by making cassava peel starch, mixing raw materials and printing edibles film. Next, the water vapor rate and mechanical properties tests were carried out which included tensile strength tests, elongation tests and biodegradation tests. Results What was obtained from this research was the optimum concentration, namely 5 gr of cassava starch, 2 ml glycerol, 2 grams chitosan and 1 ml Palm oil with edible film characteristics was obtained respectively for the water vapor transmission rate test of 15.37 gr/hour.m2, tensile strength test of 0.66 MPa, elongation test of 4.05%, thickness test of 0.17 mm, and biodegrability test for 2 Sunday.