Poly(Lactic Acid)-based active packages loaded with polyphenolic compounds

Abstract Extension of shelf life of food products is a long time desired and tested outcome of different innovative packaging techniques and materials. When it comes to novel materials, biopolymer-based ones stand out. Most of them possess proper mechanical and permeability properties, however not all of them are able to inhibit microorganism growing and food spoilage. But when a biopolymer-based film is combined with active compounds, such as polyphenolic ones, an antioxidant effect along with antimicrobial one is observed. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the potential of poly(lactic acid) film incorporated with different polyphenols. The obtained polymer-polyphenol structures are characterized mechanically regarding their Young modulus, strain at break and stress at break. Their wettability and water vapour transmission rates are also examined. As they are intended to be applied as packaging materials, their water uptake is evaluated. Since the structures will be embedded with polyphenolic compounds, their morphology and antioxidant activity are obtained.