Cassava Starch based Antimicrobial Biofilms for Food Packaging

摘要

Most lightweight synthetic plastic is used for a one-time utilization for packaging and is discontinued when its useful life is over, remaining in garbage deposits and landfills for decades [1]. Degradable plastics are plastics that can permit a degradation process. They are defined as plastics with comparable properties to synthetic plastics, but they can be decomposed after disposal in the environment through the activity of microorganisms [2]. The incorporation of starch in polyethylene blends will increase the biodegradability of the biofilm, however at the same time reduce its mechanical properties. The biocomposites undergo the film blowing process to produce biofilms with the addition of a compatibilizer to enhance its mechanical properties and incorporated with antimicrobial agent to establish its smart packaging characteristics. These biofilms play a part in prolonging the shelf-life of foods and reduce the risk from pathogens.