Encapsulation of Jujube Extract in Electrospun Nanofiber: Release Profile, Functional Effectiveness, and Application for Active Packaging

In this study, jujube extract (JE)-loaded PVA nanofibers were synthesized by electrospinning, and their effects on enhancing the shelf life of strawberries were evaluated. The effectiveness of PVA/JE nanofiber film was assessed by measuring their decay percentage, total phenol, and anthocyanin content, titratable acidity, color parameters, and total count of bacteria on strawberries. The results displayed that JE has antioxidant activity (from 350.63 +/- 6.25 to 1390.1 +/- 15.3 M Fe(II)/DW) and an inhibiting effect on studying bacteria and fungi (Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Aspergillus fumigatus). Images (SEM) of PVA nanofibers showed a uniform morphology, beadles, and smooth surface. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) confirmed that JE loaded into PVA nanofiber without any chemical interaction. PVA nanofiber film encapsulated JE with an efficiency of about 83.54% and was released 42% of encapsulated JE into the atmosphere after 180 h. After 6 days of storage, PVA/JE nanofiber significantly reduced senescence, preserved nutrition contents, and protected the physicochemical properties of strawberries.