Obtaining poly (lactic acid) nanofibers encapsulated with peppermint essential oil as potential packaging via solution-blow-spinning

Author(s)

Mendes, Juliana Farinassi ; Norcino, Lais Bruno ; Correa, Thaila Quatrini ; Barbosa, Talita Villa ; Paschoalin, Rafaella T. ; Mattoso, Luiz Henrique Capparelli

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules; v. 230, p. 13-pg., 2023-01-30.

Abstract

The development of active packaging based on biodegradable material and incorporating active compounds, such as essential oil, is a new technique to ensure food safety without harming the environment. In this study, nanofiber mats of poly (lactic acid)/ polyethylene glycol (PLA/PEG) blend incorporated with peppermint essential oil (PO) at different ratios (5-20 % v/w) were produced by solution-blow-spinning (SBS) for potential packaging application. Electron microscopy showed a cylindrical and interlaced morphology for PLA/PEG/PO and a significant increase in the diameter (139-192 nm) of the nanofibers by increasing PO content. All nano -fibers showed high thermal stability (278-345 degrees C) suitable for use in the food industry. Nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR) spectrum confirmed PO in the nanofibers after SBS. ATR-FTIR spectral analysis supported the chemical composition of the nanofiber mats. PO addition led to obtaining hydrophobic nanofibers, enhancing the contact angle to 122 degrees and decreasing water vapor permeability (60 % reduction compared to the PLA/PEG (3.0 g.mm.kPa(-1).h(-1).m(-2)). Although the PLA/PEG/20%PO nanofibers did not show halo formation in 24 h, they effectively extended the strawberries' shelf-life at 25 degrees C, evidencing PO release over time. It also reduced weight loss (2.5 % and 0.3 % weight loss after 5 days for PLA/PEG and PLA/PEG/20%PO, respectively) and increased firmness (8-12 N) for strawberries packed with the nanofiber mats. It is suggested that PLA/PEG films incor-porating PO may be used as an active, environmentally friendly packaging material. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/18725-2 - Hybrid core-shell and Janus nanofibers obtained by solution blow spinning
• Grantee: Rafaella Takehara Paschoalin
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 19/26622-4 - Development of nanostructured dressings containing antimicrobial agents aiming at tissue engineering applications in cattle
• Grantee: Juliana Farinassi Mendes
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral