Corncob-derived Biodegradable Packaging Films: A Sustainable Solution for Raspberry Post-harvest Preservation

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-2024

Abstract

Plastic food packaging, with its harmful migration of microplastics and nanoplastics into food, presents signif- icant ecological imbalance and human health risks. In this regard, using food and agricultural byproducts as packaging materials reduces environmental and economic concerns and supports their sustainable management. Herein, cellulosic residue from corncob was employed as a renewable source for developing biodegradable packaging films. It was solubilized in ZnCl2 solution, crosslinked with Ca2+ ions, and plasticized with sorbitol to form films and used to improve the shelf-life of raspberries. The optimized film possesses water vapor perme- ability, tensile strength, and elongation at break of 1.8(4) x10 10 g 1 s 1 Pa 1, 4.7(1) MPa, and 15.4(7)%, respectively. It displays UV-blocking and antioxidant properties and biodegrades within 29 days at 24% soil moisture. It preserves raspberries for 7 and 5 more days at room temperature and refrigeration conditions, respectively, compared to polystyrene film. Overall, more value addition could be envisioned from agricultural residues to minimize post-harvest losses and food waste through biodegradable packaging, which also aids in mitigating plastic perils.

Publication Title

Food Chemistry

Volume

454

Issue

139749

DOI of Published Version

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139749

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