A new biodegradable film for sweet cherry packaging

26 Sep 2024
658

Research in the field of packaging materials is increasingly moving towards more sustainable solutions, aiming to reduce the environmental impact caused by traditional plastic materials. In this context, a group of Chinese researchers has developed a biodegradable composite film made from gelatin, pectin, and cellulose nanofibers (CNF), enriched with an antibacterial agent called polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride (PHMB).

This film could potentially replace traditional polyethylene (PE) films, commonly used for packaging fruit, such as cherries.

The film was created using a solvent casting process, which allowed the integration of CNF and PHMB into the gelatin and pectin matrix. Analyses have shown that the addition of CNF significantly improved the barrier properties of the film, reducing its permeability to water and oxygen.

Additionally, PHMB conferred antibacterial properties to the material, reducing microbial activity against bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Beyond this, PHMB also improved the mechanical performance of the film, making it more durable. Moreover, films incorporating PHMB in varying concentrations (up to 6% of the total weight) demonstrated increased resistance to water solubility, making them particularly effective for protecting food that requires moisture barriers.

A key aspect of this research was the practical application of the biodegradable film in sweet cherry packaging. Over a 12-day storage period, the film proved to be more effective than traditional films in maintaining the appearance and freshness of the cherries.

The experimental group treated with the gelatin, pectin, CNF, and PHMB film showed a significantly lower deterioration rate compared to the non-sealed control group and the group packaged with polyethylene (PE) film. Cherries packaged with the new film maintained higher visual quality, showing less decay and weight loss.

Another important advantage of this material is its biodegradability. Soil degradation tests showed rapid decomposition of the film, which lost its original shape within 16 days. This result is promising for the use of this material in short-term applications, such as packaging fresh products, where sustainability and the reduction of plastic waste are priorities.

Despite these encouraging results, the study also highlighted some limitations. For instance, the film has not yet integrated a real-time freshness monitoring feature, which could be useful for visually indicating the preservation status of food products.

In conclusion, this biodegradable film represents an important innovation in the food packaging sector. It not only offers a valid alternative to traditional plastic films, thanks to its durability and antibacterial properties, but also helps reduce environmental pollution thanks to its rapid biodegradability and the potential to be made from by-products.

Source: Lou, L., Chen, H., & Zhang, L. (2024). Biodegradable gelatin/pectin films containing cellulose nanofibers and biguanide polymers: Characterization and application in sweet cherry packaging. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 274, 133530. https://doi-org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133530.
Image: Science Direct

Andrea Giovannini
University of Bologna (IT)


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

The properties of cherries and sour cherries and uses in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries

Health

11 Dec 2024

Rich in flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids, cherries are renowned for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown their ability to reduce oxidative stress, a key factor in conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders.

Japan: high temperatures, labour shortages and US imports, USDA report

Production

16 Sep 2024

In the 2023/24 marketing year, the area planted with fresh cherries in Japan slightly decreased to 4,200 hectares (ha) compared to 4,230 ha in MY 2022/23. FAS/Tokyo predicts that this trend will continue in MY 2024/25, with the planted area expected to reach 4,160 hectares.

In evidenza

Sweet cherry cracking: the Romanian study linking fruit quality to resistance

Quality

18 Apr 2025

A Romanian study explores the link between sweet cherry cracking and fruit quality factors such as weight, firmness, and pH. Findings provide actionable insights for enhancing cultivar resistance and supporting cherry growers in challenging climates.

Lightweight agrivoltaics over cherry trees: a pioneering pilot plant in Germany

Covers

18 Apr 2025

A groundbreaking agrivoltaic pilot project in Germany installs lightweight solar panels over cherry orchards using existing weather protection systems—maximizing land use, preserving fruit yields and offering a replicable, sustainable model for smart farming across Europe.

Tag Popolari