Enhancing water resistance and mechanical properties of starch-based edible biofilms through chitosan, seaweed, and sodium tripolyphosphate modifications

The widespread use of single-use plastic food wrapping and drinking straws has led to significant plastic and microplastic pollution, threatening environmental sustainability and human health. This study aims to provide sustainable alternatives by improving starch-based biofilms' mechanical properties and water resistance for food wrapping and edible drinking straws. We modified starch with chitosan, raw seaweed, and sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) to enhance these biofilms. Our results show that the optimal proportion of chitosan, combined with varying seaweed and STPP content, significantly improves the biofilms' properties. The developed starch-based biofilms offer an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to single-use plastic, with the potential for large-scale, cost-effective production.Highlights Novel edible starch-based biofilms were successfully prepared. The biofilms made from renewable FDA-approved edible materials. Biofilms showed improved mechanical properties and water resistance. The biofilms exhibited non-toxic and antimicrobial properties. Biofilms offer alternatives to single-use plastic for food wrapping. Edible starch-based biofilms with enhanced water resistance and mechanical properties were created by incorporating chitosan, seaweed, and sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). These biofilms provide an eco-friendly, sustainable alternative to single-use plastic for food wrapping, with potential for large-scale, cost-effective production. image