Effects of a combination of antimicrobial silver low density polyethylene nanocomposite films and modified atmosphere packaging on the shelf life of chicken breast fillets

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) nanocomposite films containing different concentrations of silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) (0.5 and 1% of polymer weight, w/w) were manufactured via extrusion and subsequently characterised. The microbiological quality of chicken breast fillets wrapped with Ag/LDPE nanocomposite films, followed by modified atmosphere packaging (using conventional laminates and employing a gas mix of 40% CO2:60% N-2) were assessed. The tensile strength of Ag/LDPE nanocomposite films were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than control films (without Ag NPs), indicating that the presence of Ag NPs reduced the film strength. Independent of the concentration of Ag NPs used, Ag/LDPE nanocomposite films extended the shelf life of the chicken breast fillets and significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced oxidative stability compared to control films. The results indicated that LDPE nanocomposite films containing Ag NPs could potentially be used as antimicrobial packaging for food applications. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier Ltd.