Production of a novel biodegradable film made from chitosan and pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) seed essential oil

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) seed essential oil (PSO) on chitosan-based films. The results showed that the addition of PSO slightly increased thickness, while significantly decreasing the moisture content, and solubility properties. The color values of the composite films containing PSO changed noticeably, with a tendency toward light brown, which was beneficial in resisting food decomposition caused by ultraviolet light. X-Ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and Fourier-transform Infrared (FT-IR) results indicated that the addition of PSO affected the structure of the chitosan films, while the interaction between chitosan and polyphenols in PSO established new hydrogen bonds. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that the surface of the PSO-containing blend films was rougher compared to the chitosan control film, and the roughness increased as the PSO content in the blend films increased. Additionally, composite films that contained PSO had substantial antibacterial action, particularly against pathogenic E. coli. In short, the novel active chitosan-based films with incorporated PSO present broad application prospects in the packaging of fresh-cut meat or vegetables. Therefore, this study will also be beneficial in these areas.