Development of zinc oxide nanoparticle-embedded starch biofilms for food packaging

In recent years, there is increased interest in biodegradable materials as an alternative to synthetic counterparts (particularly in food packaging industries) due to the negative environmental impacts of synthetic plastics. Researchers have developed various starch-based composites for different applications. The aim of the study was to develop zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticle (NPs) embedded biofilms from potato starch and corn starch as alternatives to plastic packaging for food materials. The objective of the study was (1) to develop ZnO NPs-embedded starch biofilms from potato starch and corn starch as alternatives to plastic packaging for food materials. (2) To evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the biofilms by testing their sensory characteristics and functional properties. The protocol was standardized, biofilms were developed, sensory characteristics were analyzed, and functional properties were tested. Potato starch biofilm had the highest moisture content (11.03 ± 0.78%), swelling index (30.16 ± 0.31%), and solubility (26.37 ± 0.63%) was rough, brittle, and had moderate transparency. Corn starch biofilm had the least moisture content (11.03 ± 0.78%), swelling index (27.02 ± 0.35%), and solubility (20.70 ± 0.74%) was fine, inflexible, and had poor transparency. Potato starch biofilm with its higher moisture content, swelling index, and solubility may be ideal for biodegradable packaging of fresh or moist foods. In contrast, corn starch biofilm with its lower moisture content, swelling index, and solubility may be better suited for dry, shelf-stable foods, offering moisture resistance and structural integrity. However, a better alternative in terms of physical properties and sensory characteristics has to be developed.