Development of polyvinyl alcohol/chitosan/modified bacterial nanocellulose films incorporated with 4-hexylresorcinol for food packaging applications

Bacterial nanocelluloses (BNCs) were successfully modified with aminosilane, n-2-aminoethyl-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH)/chitosan (CS) composite films incorporated with modified BNCs (mBNCs) and 4-hexylresorcinol (4-HR) were produced using a solution casting technique. The morphological properties and chemical structure were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Incorporation of mBNCs and 4-HR increased the film redness and yellowness but decreased the film brightness and transparency. The moisture content, elongation at break, and water vapor permeability of the films were improved with the addition of mBNCs and 4-HR, while water solubility and tensile strength were reduced. The antioxidant properties of the films were greatly improved upon the addition of 4-HR. The active films showed excellent antimicrobial effect against spoilage bacteria on vacuum packaged refrigerated raw beef. Thus, PVOH/CS composite films incorporated with mBNCs and 4-HR have a great potential to be used as an active packaging material in food industry.