Physicochemical and antifungal properties of active gelatin-carboxymethylcellulose films with coconut shell extract

Introduction: The formulation of bioactive packaging represents an innovative alternative to control the development of microorganisms affecting the shelf life of foods. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of a coconut shell extract added to gelatincarboxymethylcellulose biopolymeric films on their physicochemical and antifungal properties to determine their potential use as packaging material for fruit and vegetable products. Methodology: Gelatin-carboxymethylcellulose films were prepared with different concentrations of coconut shell extract and their thickness, mechanical (puncture force and tensile strength), physical (water vapor permeability) and microstructural properties, color, FTIR, UV light transmittance, opacity and in vitro antifungal activity were determined. Results: Changes in mechanical, physical and microstructural properties were observed depending on the concentration of the extract. The color was modified by the effect of the extract, with higher opacity and lower light transmittance as its concentration increased. Intermolecular interactions between the biopolymers and the extract components were observed in the FTIR spectra. In vitro tests showed inhibitory capacity on the growth of Aspergillus niger and Rhizopus stolonifer. Limitations of the study: The effect of the coconut shell additive only applies to the extraction conditions used. Originality: There are no studies supporting the antifungal capacity of coconut shell extract added to biopolymer films. Conclusions: Active gelatin-carboxymethylcellulose films with antifungal activity were reported. The physical and structural properties of the films make them suitable for use as packaging material for fruit and vegetable products.