In this study, antimicrobial nanocomposites based on low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and calcium oxide nanoparticles (CaO) were developed for potential use in food packaging. CaO nanoparticles, averaging 5.6 ± 1.8 nm in diameter, were synthesized from eggshells and surface-modified with oleic acid (O-CaO). Nanocomposites were prepared via melt-blending, incorporating nanoparticles into neat LDPE at 5 and 10 wt% concentrations. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses revealed improved distribution and dispersion of O-CaO nanoparticles within the polymer matrix compared to unmodified CaO. This enhanced dispersion increased the crystallinity percentage (%Xc) of LDPE/O-CaO from 14 % to 18 %. Mechanical testing showed a 22 % increase in Young’s modulus for nanocomposites with 5 wt% O-CaO, with dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) confirming increased stiffness at low temperatures. The nanocomposite films exhibited high antimicrobial efficacy, reducing Escherichia coli populations by over 74 %, dependent on nanoparticle surface modification. These findings suggest that LDPE/O-CaO films are a promising alternative for antimicrobial food packaging applications.
This review explores the potential of agri-food waste materials, with a particular focus on macadamia nut by-products. Industrial processing of macadamia nuts yields a significant volume of by-products, including green husk and woody shell. Recent research has highlighted these by-products as readily available, cost-effective rich sources of phenolic compounds, renowned for their potent antioxidant and antibacterial properties. This paper emphasizes the importance of selecting an optimal extraction method to fully harness the bioactive potential of these phenolic compounds. In this work, we provide a comprehensive overview of conventional and advanced extraction techniques that are used to extract phenolic compounds from macadamia by-products, with a particular focus on the methods applied to macadamia green husk. Among the various techniques, it appears that ultrasound-assisted extraction, especially when combined with aqueous organic solvents, is more efficient than other methods for this purpose. This review also addresses the challenges in phenolic compound recovery, primarily due to the lack of a standardized extraction process. This often results in the extensive use of extraction solvents to achieve an extract that is rich in phenolic compounds. Overall, this research offers a valuable understanding of the most effective methods for the extraction and recovery of phenolic compounds from macadamia by-products and discusses the potential for scaling up these extraction processes. Hence, it can serve as a useful resource for researchers and industry professionals interested in sustainable and efficient utilization of by-products of the nut industry.
Pectinases are a diverse group of enzymes that play a crucial role in modifying or breaking down complex pectic substances. Pectinases are widely distributed among bacteria, fungi, and plants. The global demand for microbial pectinase has significantly increased due to its broad applicability and efficient catalytic capabilities across multiple industries including food processing, textiles, and biofuel production. Their commercial production often relies on expensive substrates, contributing to economic inefficiency and environmental burdens. Utilizing agro-industrial waste and microorganisms for pectinase production offers a rational solution to two interconnected challenges: the cost-effectiveness of enzyme production and the environmental impact of waste generation. Moreover, the valorization of waste materials not only contributes to efficient enzyme production but also exemplifies a circular approach by minimizing environmental impact and promoting sustainable resource efficiency to bioprocessing. This review offers a thorough examination of microbial pectinases, including their production from agro-industrial waste, their various industrial applications, and the current market landscape. It also delves into recent advancements in enzyme development and optimization techniques that have significantly boosted the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of pectinase production. By highlighting these developments, the review emphasizes the potential for this approach to enhance industrial practices and contribute to environmental sustainability.