Biodegradable and active nanocomposite pouches reinforced with silver nanoparticles for improved packaging of chicken sausages

This study reports the development of biodegradable PVA-montmorillonite K10 clay nanocomposite blend films with in situ generated ginger extract mediated silver nanoparticles. Photo-assisted method using sunlight irradiation was adopted for the rapid and eco-friendly in situ generation of ginger extract mediated silver nanoparticles in the composite. FTIR, XRD and SEM analysis were conducted to confirm the generation of AgNPs. The nanocomposite blend film had clear antimicrobial activity against common food borne pathogens S. Typhimurium and S. aureus. It also had superior mechanical properties, water resistivity and light barrier ability compared to control films. Indoor soil burial test revealed the nanocomposite blend would degrade completely within 110 days. The nanocomposite blend film was then fabricated into novel packaging pouches and found to be highly efficient in reducing the microbial burden in chicken sausage samples, compared to control polyethylene pouches, signifying its potentiality in extending the shelf life of chicken meat products.