Microencapsulated cinnamon essential oil extends bread shelf life and alters microbial diversity

The extension of bread shelf life through natural preservatives has received significant attention, yet the effects of such preservatives under specific storage conditions and their impact on microbial diversity remain underexplored. This study aimed to prepare and characterize microencapsulated cinnamon essential oil (CEO-Ms) using the spray drying method. The CEO-Ms were analyzed for their morphology, structure, and thermal stability using scanning electron microscopy, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Furthermore, antimicrobial sachets containing CEO-Ms were prepared to evaluate the impact on the shelf life and microbial diversity of packaged bread. The results confirmed the successful encapsulation of CEO, preserving its volatile components and demonstrating excellent thermal stability. Notably, CEO-Ms effectively prolong the shelf life of bread without direct contact, while also inhibiting dominant genera and enhancing community diversity. These findings demonstrate that CEO-Ms can alter the microbial community structure and diversity, providing a new insight into the relationship between microbial dynamics and food shelf life.