Tradescantia pallida extract incorporated chitosan/pullulan intelligent biodegradable films: an eco-friendly packaging to preserve the freshness of chicken

Abstract

Herein, biodegradable active films were developed using a polysaccharide based blend of chitosan (CS) and pullulan (PU), incorporated with the ethanolic extract of Tradescantia pallida (TP), to function as intelligent food packaging materials. FTIR confirmed intermolecular hydrogen bonding between the polyphenolic constituents of TP extract and the CS/PU matrix. The resulting CPT intelligent biodegradable films exhibited an impressive tensile strength of 45.84 MPa, surpassing that of conventional plastic films. SEM micrographs revealed a uniform and compact surface morphology, demonstrating successful blending and structural integrity. The incorporation of polyphenolic compounds not only enhanced the antimicrobial efficacy of the films against foodborne pathogens but also imparted remarkable antioxidant potential, as evidenced by DPPH (89.81%) and ABTS (85.14%) radical scavenging activities. A distinct color shift from purple to yellow upon spoilage enabled real-time monitoring of freshness. Chicken samples packaged in polyethylene (PE) and CPT-2 intelligent biodegradable films were stored under ambient conditions. Analyses of microbial growth, ammonia release, free fatty acid degradation, and the effects of UV exposure revealed that CPT-2 intelligent biodegradable films offered superior protection against microbial contamination and oxidative deterioration, thereby extending the chicken's shelf life compared to PE packaging. The CPT intelligent biodegradable films also showed biodegradation potential, addressing the persistence, landfill accumulation, and greenhouse gas emissions associated with single-use plastics. Thereby mitigating the adverse impacts of SUPs on human health and the ecosystem. Overall, the physicochemically enhanced intelligent films offer a sustainable and effective alternative to plastic packaging, improving food safety and environmental health.