Development and characterisation of agar/silver nanoparticles-based film from Gracilaria canaliculata for food packaging

Abstract

Gracilaria canaliculata was used as a novel source to extract agar, and for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles (0.1 - 0.3%) were incorporated into the agar matrix to develop an environment-friendly food packaging material using the solution casting method. The concentration of nanoparticles affected the physical, thermal, and mechanical properties of the films. Films containing higher concentrations of silver nanoparticles exhibited promising properties, and demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive foodborne pathogens. The film formulation exhibited no cytotoxic effect on HepG2 cells, with cell viability exceeding 94%. These findings suggested that the film possessed favourable characteristics for use as a food packaging material, presenting a potential alternative to plastics.