Bioactive films from saffron corm and corn husk: A transformative solution for antioxidant and antimicrobial pistachio packaging

This study explored the development and functional properties of bioactive films incorporating saffron corm starch (SCS), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) with saffron corm extract (SCE) as an active compound. The films exhibited improved mechanical strength, superior water vapor barrier properties, and significant antioxidant activity. The peroxide value (PV) of SCS/CMC/SCE-packaged pistachios increased from 0.48 ± 0.01 to 5.87 ± 0.85 mmol O 2 kg −1 over 30 days at 30 °C, remaining significantly lower than that of control samples (11.46 ± 1.20 mmol O 2 kg −1 , P < 0.05). The anisidine value (AV) remained stable (47 ± 0.28 mmol kg −1 ) in packaged samples for the first 20 days, whereas LDPE-packaged pistachios exhibited a significant increase (0.96 ± 0.05 mmol kg −1 to 3.05 ± 0.14 mmol kg −1 ). The film also demonstrated strong antimicrobial properties, reducing mold and yeast counts to 2.15 ± 0.09 log CFU g −1 , compared to 3.70 ± 0.05 log CFU g −1 in control samples after 30 days. Aflatoxin levels in SCS/CMC/SCE-packaged pistachios remained below 12 μg kg −1 , while LDPE-packaged samples exceeded 30 μg kg −1 . These findings highlight the promise of SCS-based bioactive films as a practical and sustainable alternative to traditional packaging, providing both functional benefits and safety improvements. Future studies should investigate their scalability, cost-effectiveness, and performance in different environmental conditions. • Sustainable films were developed using saffron corm starch, carboxymethyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, and saffron extract. • Lipid oxidation was reduced (PV< 6 meq/kg) and microbial growth decreased by 0.6-fold compared to the controls. • The films kept aflatoxin levels below the permissible limit of 12 ppb. • Agricultural waste was utilized to promote eco-friendly food packaging with a wide range of industrial applications.