Active Biopackaging Films Enriched With Andız (Juniperus drupacea L.) Shell Extract for Fresh Meat Packaging

Abstract

Andız (Juniperus drupacea L.) shell, a valuable waste produced during the production of andız molasses, was used as a natural source of bioactive compounds. The functional properties of andız shell's extract were determined under various extraction conditions including temperature, time, solid ratio and solvent type. Alginate and gelatin were selected as carbohydrate and protein‐based sources for the development of biodegradable packaging. The optimum film formulation was determined by evaluating physical properties such as thickness, tensile strength, elongation, water vapour permeability, water activity, water solubility and optical properties. In addition to the physical properties, the functional properties such as antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of biocomposite films incorporating extracts in different proportions were also evaluated. Furthermore, the potential usage of this packaging to maintain the quality of fresh meat was investigated during a 12‐day refrigerated storage at 4 °C. Periodic analyses were conducted on the samples for total aerobic mesophilic bacteria count, psychrotrophic bacteria counts, pH, colour and texture properties. The results demonstrated that the meat packaged with active films exhibited a reduction in microbial growth and maintained the quality of meat samples during storage. Therefore, the developed biodegradable active packaging material shows promising functionality for preserving fresh meat and meat products.