Impact of clove essential oil and potassium sorbate incorporation on cassava starch‐based films reinforced peach palm cellulose nanofibrils

Abstract

The effects of clove essential oil (CEO) and potassium sorbate (PS) incorporation on the functional properties of starch films reinforced with peach palm cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) were investigated. The films active with CEO/PS inhibited the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, but they were more effective against Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus. The film incorporated only with PS showed inhibition only for S. aureus. Antimicrobial agents influenced all characteristics of the films, except water vapor permeability, which was statistically unchanged (p < .05) at the highest concentration of CEO. The active films were partially soluble in water and predominantly yellow in color and provided an efficient barrier to light due to the low transparency. There was a loss in mechanical strength, but a gain in elasticity. These results demonstrated the efficacy of the synergistic antimicrobial action of CEO/PS incorporated in starch/CNF films, besides presenting desirable physical characteristics with a possible application as packaging. Novelty impact statement:• Clove essential oil and potassium sorbate was successfully dispersed in starch/ CNF-based films.• The active starch/CNF-based films demonstrated antibacterial activities and antimicrobial agents influenced all the physical characteristics of the films.• The active films have potential application a packaging to protect food from light.