Design and Optimization of AgNP‐Reinforced Nanocomposite Biopolymer Films for Intelligent Detection of TVB‐N in Seafood Quality Assessment

ABSTRACT This study aimed to develop, optimize, and characterize intelligent indicator films based on starch and carboxymethyl cellulose incorporated with silver nanoparticles and red cabbage anthocyanin for monitoring seafood freshness. Response surface methodology identified that formulation with 1.35 mg of AgNP and 30% RCE achieved the optimal balance of mechanical, barrier, and antioxidant properties, as determined through significant (p ≤ 0.0001) linear, quadratic, and two‐factor interactions with a high model fit ( R 2 = 0.98–0.99). The optimum formulation predicted by desirability analysis revealed that incorporating 1.35 mg of AgNP enhanced tensile strength (TS) by 23.31% while reducing elongation at break and water vapor permeability (WVP) by 25.21% and 18%, respectively. Conversely, the addition of 30% RCE increased total phenolic content (TPC) by 14.60 mg GAE/g and antioxidant activity by 65%, though it reduced transparency by 27% and increased water solubility by 33%. Films containing AgNP showed a 30% slower degradation rate. These intelligent films were successfully used to monitor seafood spoilage, with visible color changes corresponding to freshness based on total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N) concentrations and pH levels. The findings highlight the potential of AgNP and RCE‐based biopolymer films to extend the shelf life of perishable foods while providing real‐time indicators of spoilage.