Article 2026 · 0 citations

Development and characterization of EPS-modified alginate films with improved barrier, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibrowning capabilities

Abstract

Functionally enriched calcium alginate (CA/EPS) biocomposite films incorporating exopolysaccharide (EPS) from Bacillus licheniformis WL5 were developed to delay enzymatic browning in fresh produce. FT-IR analysis confirmed strong hydrogen bonding between EPS and alginate, whereas SEM revealed a denser, fibrillar structure. Compared with neat CA films, CA/EPS films had a reduced moisture content (7.00%), solubility (21.9%), swelling ratio (35.83%), and water vapor transmission rate (23.53 g/m2 & sdot;day), indicating improved barrier properties. Mechanical testing revealed higher tensile strength and Young's modulus, whereas optical studies demonstrated increased opacity and improved UV-Vis light protection. The films exhibited strong antioxidant activity (DPPH 90.19%, ABTS 92.40%) and notable antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, with lower MIC and MBC values. Controlled diffusion-based release of bioactive compounds was observed. Coating fresh-cut apples effectively reduced browning during cold storage, and strong polyphenol oxidase inhibition (IC50 = 17.72 mu g/mL) highlighted their potential as multifunctional active packaging materials.

Keywords

Bacillus licheniformis WL5 Exopolysaccharide Alginate film Polyphenol oxidase Active packaging ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTIES SODIUM ALGINATE MECHANICAL-PROPERTIES ESSENTIAL OILS CROSS-LINKING EXOPOLYSACCHARIDES EXTRACT SLUDGE

WoS Categories

Chemistry, Applied Food Science & Technology Nutrition & Dietetics

Citation

Journal: FOOD CHEMISTRY
Year: 2026
Volume: 513
ISSN: 0308-8146
eISSN: 1873-7072
DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2026.149017
WoS UID: WOS:001730786000001

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