From waste to worth: biodegradable films derived from pineapple peel nanocellulose for sustainable packaging

Pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) is a significant tropical fruit, and its processing generates considerable waste, particularly from pineapple peels. These peels, which represent 30-42% of the fruit’s weight, contain cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and pectin, making them a valuable resource for creating bio-based, biodegradable materials. This study investigates the extraction of nanocellulose from pineapple peels (PPNc) and its application in biodegradable film production. PPNc films were fabricated using a gellan gum matrix and characterized for their physical, chemical, mechanical and biodegradation properties. Results indicate that the films exhibit a transparency of 24.52 ± 0.86%, a water solubility of 25.29 ± 1.03%, and a biodegradation rate of 91.14 ± 1.41%, outperforming many conventional biodegradable films. The films also demonstrated a tensile strength of 69.6 ± 4.95 MPa and a Young’s modulus of 1392 ± 99 MPa, indicating robust mechanical properties suitable for packaging applications. Additionally, the films showed moderate water vapor transmission rates (69.66 ± 0.08 g/m² × day) and excellent light transmission properties, making them viable for food packaging where visibility and moisture control are essential. These findings highlight the potential of PPnc films as sustainable, biodegradable alternatives to single-use plastics, contributing to waste reduction, environmental conservation and promoting a circular economy.