Fabrication of polyvinylalcohol‐zinc oxide paper ash composite: A novel, sustainable and antimicrobial food packaging material

Abstract This paper introduces an innovative strategy for preparing sustainable food packaging composite material comprising water‐soluble PVA and varied content of antimicrobial ZnO paper ash (0, 1, 5, and 10) wt.%. Following the sustainable approach, the ZnO nanoparticles are synthesized using waste papers in a simple and efficient process. Among the synthesized composites, the PVA/ZnO paper ash (5 wt.%) composite achieved significant antimicrobial efficacy, with inhibition zones of 40 ± 0.01 mm for gram‐positive and 37 ± 0.02 mm for gram‐negative bacteria. Such an antimicrobial performance surpasses many conventional PVA/ZnO composites. Additionally, the PVA/ZnO paper ash (5 wt.%) composite biodegraded within 40 days and showed excellent renewable properties. The food packaging application of fruit and vegetables was evaluated by monitoring the variation in physical appearance, weight loss rate, and pH conditions. Also, the antifungal test was assessed through the packaging of bread. The packaging tests revealed that while polyethylene (PE) films allowed quick spoilage due to pathogens, the composite packets maintained food freshness, underscoring its superior antimicrobial properties. Therefore, its improved antimicrobial and food preservation properties indicate that the PVA/ZnO paper ash composite is a promising and practical solution for sustainable and antimicrobial food packaging applications. Highlights Novel PVA/ZnO paper ash composite. Easy, ecofriendly synthesis of the antimicrobial film by using waste paper as a functional material. High antimicrobial property of PVA/ZnO paper ash. PVA/ZnO paper ash composite as an effective food packaging system. Superior antifungal activity of PVA/ZnO paper ash composite.