Characteristics of Bio-plastics for Fresh Product Packaging Materials

Abstract

Abstract Plastic is widely used as a popular packaging material, but its not eco-friendly. Therefore, it can be substituted with bio-plastics. This study aims to assess characteristics of bio-plastic (starch-based) and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) for packaging materials, examining diverse treatments of storage conditions. Additionally, it compares weight loss in fresh products during storage, considering variations in packaging type, storage temperature, and storage time. Testing focused on three parameters: tensile strength, elongation, and Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) for both packaging types over 8 hours at various temperatures (16 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C) and relative humidity (18%, 51%, 79%, 90%). The results of each parameter were compared using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and analyzed using three-way ANOVA. Results reveal that WVTR of the packaging increases with rising the Relative Humidity (RH). Tensile strength is influenced by the packaging material, not the storage conditions, while elongation is affected by the environment RH, which alters material properties. Weight loss in product quality remains stable at low temperatures. Bio-plastic packaging results in higher weight loss compared to HDPE. Mechanical properties of packaging remain unaffected by storage temperature or time.