Development and Characterization of Banana Starch– and Guava Peel Extract–Based Sustainable Packaging Films

In order to compensate the use of plastics, biodegradable starch–based polymer films have been introduced. Banana starch is considered suitable for use in food packaging applications, implying that films made from banana starch can be used directly for the packaging of various food products without causing any health hazards. This study focuses on development of a biodegradable film using banana starch incorporated with guava leaf extract. Guava leaf extract serves as an antimicrobial agent to the formulation. Thereby, banana starch–based film can display antimicrobial properties, which could potentially prolong the shelf life of perishable food items by preventing microbial spoilage. The film was analyzed for solubility, water absorption capacity, water vapor transfer rate, total polyphenol, moisture content, and antimicrobial activity for varied starch (2%–6%), guava leaf extract (1%–3%), and glycerol (10%–25%) concentrations. The analysis affirmed the optimum combinations as 2.28% starch, 1.37% guava leaf extract, and 15.26% glycerol. Corresponding response variables such as thickness, solubility, water absorption capacity, total polyphenol, zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli, and moisture content achieved were 0.081 mm, 42.35%, 50.66%, 31.92 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g, 7.12 mm, and 7.94%, respectively. In summary, antimicrobial banana starch–based packaging film presents a promising alternative for food packaging on commercial basis. Further, this would cause minimum environmental impact and help in food preservation.