Biopolymer-Based Films Enriched with Stevia rebaudiana Used for the Development of Edible and Soluble Packaging

Abstract

Currently, there is an increasing concern toward the plastic pollution of the environment, in general, and of oceans, in particular, as a result of disposable packaging in the food industry. Thus, it is extremely necessary that we identify solutions for this problem. This study was aimed at identifying a viable alternative—biopolymer-based, edible, and renewable food packaging—and succeeded in doing so. For this work, 30 films with different characteristics and properties were obtained using agar and sodium alginate as film-forming materials and glycerol for plasticization. Tests were performed, such as physical properties, microstructure, mechanical properties, microbiological characteristics, and solubility assessment, showing that edible materials can be used to package powdered products and dehydrated vegetables, or to cover fruits and vegetables, cheese slices, and sausages. These materials come from renewable resources, are easily obtained, and can be immediately applied in the food industry, thus being a viable alternative to food packaging.