A study on Plant based edible films

Edible packaging offers a sustainable solution to reduce plastic waste while preserving food quality. This study investigated plant-based edible films prepared using juices from grapes, watermelon, ash gourd, and tomato, with agar-agar as a film-forming agent. Films were analysed for physical, organoleptic, and nutritional properties using the wet casting method. Grape-based films exhibited the greatest thickness, while tomato films showed strong visual appeal due to their natural pigments. Sensory evaluations revealed high acceptability for grape and watermelon films. Shelf life ranged from 7–10 days under refrigeration, and cost-effectiveness was demonstrated with per-film costs averaging ₹5.75–₹6.50. The study supports the potential of edible films as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional packaging, with benefits in food safety, preservation, and consumer satisfaction.