Extraction and applications of frankincense oleoresin as functional ingredient in pectin/sodium-alginate composite films for active packaging

The composite films fabricated by incorporating frankincense oleoresin (FOR) into pectin and sodium alginate matrices, were underwent several analysis including thickness, mechanical strength, barrier properties, color attributes, morphological structure, surface roughness, chemical composition, crystalline nature, as well as evaluations of antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The findings of the study indicated an increase in the thickness of the film samples with the addition of FOR however reduction in both tensile strength (from 9.59 to 2.58 MPa) and elongation at break (from 9.85 % to 3.22 %) was observed. The water vapor permeability of the developed films demonstrated an increase from 0.411 to 0.878 (g∗mm)/(m²∗h∗kPa). Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) imaging results indicated a reduction in the surface roughness of films upon the addition of FOR. Additionally, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra unveiled chemical interactions between the film-forming polymers and FOR. Furthermore, a significant enhancement in the antioxidant activity was observed in films incorporating FOR, compared to the control group. These FOR-loaded film samples demonstrated antimicrobial effects against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while no inhibitory zones were observed against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. In summary, the outcomes of this investigation highlight the promising potential of pectin/sodium alginate composite films containing FOR in packaging applications.