Development of starch films with antimicrobial activity induced by high-intensity pulsed light.

• Grant number: 25/25037-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: March 01, 2026
• End date: February 28, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Food Science and Technology - Food Technology
• Principal Investigator: Luís Marangoni Júnior
• Grantee: Davi Eiji Sakugawa
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia de Alimentos (FEA). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 25/10856-7 - Pulsed light as a strategy for structural and functional modulation of starch-based biodegradable films, AP.R

Abstract

Microbiological control is a central challenge in the preservation of fresh foods. Active packaging with antimicrobial properties is an emerging strategy and typically involves the addition of antimicrobial agents. However, this can raise regulatory, sensory, and cost concerns. High-intensity pulsed light is capable of generating reactive oxygen species on treated surfaces, a phenomenon well documented in microbial inactivation. The hypothesis of this project is that high-intensity pulsed light could induce chemical modifications on the surface of starch films, conferring antimicrobial effects without the need for additives, representing a completely innovative and sustainable approach. (AU)