Chitosan Assisted Centella asiatica Phytocompounds for Novel Sustainable Food Packaging Applications

The present study evaluated the potential of chitosan-assisted phytocompounds from Centella asiatica for antibacterial food packaging application.Chitosan, a natural polymer, is widely explored for its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and inherent antibacterial qualities, making it suitable for developing delivery systems that enhance plant-derived compound stability, bioavailability, and controlled release.GC-MS analysis of the aqueous leaf extract identified seven major compounds, with 2-chloro-6-fluorophenol showing the highest abundance (56.71%).SEM imaging revealed amorphous, irregularly shaped particles with optimized crystallite formation.Antioxidant assays (DPPH and ABTS) confirmed significant free radical scavenging activity, with IC50 values of 14.60 and 9.2 g/ml, respectively.Strong antibacterial action was also observed against E. coli, Salmonella typhi, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with inhibition zones ranging from 16-21 mm.In food packaging trials, coated samples retained their original color, texture, and taste with no spoilage, highlighting the dual therapeutic and preservative potential of this composite system.