This study developed and characterized bio-based active packaging materials using pectin (PEC) films enriched with clove essential oil (CEO)-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CHNPs). CEO was encapsulated within CHNPs via an emulsion ionic gelation technique, with varying concentrations investigated. The extracted CEO exhibited potent antioxidant activity (IC50 of 2.7 ± 0.13 μg/mL). Optimal encapsulation efficiency reached 16% (0.04 g CEO), and maximum loading capacity was 8% (0.16 g CEO). CHNPs averaged 200 nm with zeta potential up to +27 mV. These CEO-CHNPs were then incorporated into PEC films via polyelectrolyte complexation. Physicochemical characterization showed that integrating CEO-CHNPs into the PEC matrix enhanced the films' mechanical and thermal properties and improved their stability. Crucially, the in vitro antibacterial activity against Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (Pcc), a significant post-harvest phytopathogen, was rigorously assessed. All tested formulations exhibited inhibitory activity against Pcc. Notably, CEO CHNPs (0.16 g CEO initial load) at 0.3% (w/v) achieved total inhibition of Pcc growth at both 1- and 2 days post-inoculation. While some formulations showed decreased inhibition over time, the CHNPs+0.16 CEO formulation consistently demonstrated strong inhibitory capacity even at its lowest tested concentration (0.003% w/v). This enhanced potency is attributed to the synergistic action of CHNPs and CEO. These findings suggest CEO-CHNPs/PEC films are promising for extending food shelf-life, contributing to sustainable active packaging solutions.

Title

SRRN

Publisher

Elsevier

Publisher Country

United States of America

Publication Type

Online only

Volume

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Year

2025

Pages

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