Double-layer active packaging for sustainable fish preservation: polyvinyl alcohol electrospun membranes enhanced by cinnamaldehyde-loaded pickering emulsions

The aim of this study was to prepare a bilayer packaging material consisting of polyvinyl alcohol (Pva) electrospun nanofibres laminated with Pickering emulsion loaded with cinnamaldehyde (Cin). Hydrogen bonding interactions between the Pva electrospun nanofibres and the emulsion were confirmed by chemical and crystal structure analysis. Morphological observation showed uniform fibre morphology of the films. The bilayer fibre film exhibited strong hydrophobicity, which was beneficial in controlling microbial adhesion. The addition of Cin increased the mechanical properties of the film. The bilayer film was effective in controlling moisture loss, oxidation level and microbial changes in snakehead storage experiments. The Pva-l-s-c membrane reduced the TVC and TVB-N values to 5.86 log CFU·g -1 and 16.41 mg/100 g respectively at 6 days of refrigerated storage, still meeting the secondary freshness standards for consumption. Compared to the control group, the time for TVC of Pva-l-s-c to reach the spoilage threshold was delayed by 4 days. Due to the double encapsulation achieving gradual release of Cin, the Cin-loaded bilayer nanofibre film could extend the shelf-life. Key Strengths at a Glance: 1. Dual-encapsulation design 2. Reproducible manufacturing process 3. Real-food validation at 4 °C 4. Extended shelf life effect (Approximately 4 Days) 1. Dual-encapsulation design 2. Reproducible manufacturing process 3. Real-food validation at 4 °C 4. Extended shelf life effect (Approximately 4 Days) • A double-layer PVA film with Pickering emulsion reinforcement was produced. • The double-layer film showed acceptable mechanical properties. • The reinforced film showed a uniform fibrillar morphology. • The double-layer film extended the fish shelf life by 4 days.