Innovative packaging for minimally processed fruits

Novel nanocomposite films for use in the packaging of foods ready for consumption and based on isotactic polypropylene (iPP) filled with innovative calcium carbonate nanoparticles, as well as having spherical and elongated shape and covered with appropriate coating agent able to better interact with the iPP matrix, were prepared and characterized. Morphological, thermal, mechanical and transport characterizations on nanocomposite films were performed. The results evidenced a good dispersion of the nanofiller into the polymeric matrix as well as an increase in mechanical parameters such as modulus. Moreover, a drastic reduction of iPP permeability to both oxygen and carbon dioxide was also recorded. Migration tests evidenced that these nanocomposites are suitable for food packaging applications. Finally, the analysis of some shelf-life parameters carried out on packaged minimally processed apples showed that these materials are able to preserve for up to 10 days apple slices, limiting oxidation processes and microbiological growth. Copyright (c) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.