Preparation and application of chitosan/nano-TiO₂/daisy essential oil composite films in the preservation of Actinidia arguta

Chitosan, a natural polysaccharide, is widely recognized for its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and film-forming properties, making it an ideal candidate for food preservation applications. This study focuses on the development of chitosan-based nanocomposite films incorporating nano-TiO₂ and Daisy Essential Oil for the preservation of <i>Actinidia arguta</i>. The composite films were synthesized and characterized using FT-IR, XRD, SEM, TGA, UV-Visible spectroscopy, and contact angle measurements to evaluate their structural, thermal, and physical properties. The films exhibited enhanced mechanical strength, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant capacity. Application of these films on <i>Actinidia arguta</i> demonstrated significant improvements in weight loss, hardness, decay rate, total microbial count, respiration rate, soluble solids content, vitamin C, titratable acidity, and enzyme activities during storage. The results indicate that chitosan/nano-TiO₂/DEO composite films effectively extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of <i>Actinidia arguta</i>, providing a promising approach for natural and sustainable food preservation.