Process Parameter Optimization and Characterization for an Edible Film: Flaxseed Concern

Abstract

Consumer demands for biocompatible, minimally processed and eco-friendly foods have increased drastically and are currently trending. Polysaccharides derived from various plant seeds exhibiting structure conformational diversity are among such foods and used for the development of edible films. In this study, the physical properties of flaxseed, proximate characterization and rheological, mechanical and thermal features of flaxseed meal-based edible films were investigated. A development strategy worked through adding pectin + flaxseed meal to a plasticizer (glycerol) with a ratio of 7:3 w/v, whereas, in the control group, the flaxseed meal remained unaltered. The rheological results showed the non-Newtonian behavior of film-forming solutions and data were well fitted into the power law model. The developed film (flaxseed + pectin) was slightly brownish and exhibited a transparency of 17.78, which is clear enough to be used as see-through packaging material, whereas the control sample had a transparency of 38.25, indicating its fair transparency. The water vapor permeability of the test sample was also beneficial (0.992 g/cm2/24 h) and was competitively close to the control (0.981 g/cm2/24 h). The developed blended films were 98–99% soluble in water and acid, indicating their usefulness when applied as a coating. The mechanical properties, tensile strength and elongation value of the test sample were less than the control. This study will be helpful in the development of a novel biodegradable film for extending the life of different foods.