Optimizing a bionanocomposite film for active food packaging with pectin, gelatin, and chestnut shell extract-loaded zein nanoparticles

In this research, a novel active bionanocomposite food packaging film was prepared by incorporating zein nanoparticles loaded with chestnut shell extract (CSE) into a pectin and gelatine matrix. Nanocomposite films were developed based on 28 different formulations, and were assessed focusing on physicochemical, mechanical, optical, thermal, structural, and active properties. Using D-optimal combined design, the optimal formulation was determined by considering variables like carbohydrate, protein, glycerol, and zein nanoparticle ratios. The optimum film displayed low water vapor permeability (0.276 g.mm/m2.h.kPa) and high elongation at break values (>90%). We also evaluated these films for antioxidant activity (38.47 mg Trolox/100 g dw), oxygen permeability in sunflower oil (11.47 meq O2/kg), and volatile compounds. The addition of active zein nanoparticles improved film properties and introduced functional characteristics. This study introduces an optimized active bionanocomposite film formulation for potential applications in active food packaging.