Optimization of Corn Starch- Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent based Novel Edible Film Formulation Using RSM

Author: Esther Magdalene Sharon M. and Geetha P.

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Abstract

Packaging protects and preserves food from the time it is packaged to consumption. Manufacturers often prefer synthetic, non-biodegradable polymer materials for packaging due to their strength, durability, and water vapor barrier properties. However, these conventional plastics, like polyethylene and polystyrene, resist biological degradation, leading to environmental concerns. Therefore, there is a growing need for eco-friendly, biodegradable alternatives. Biodegradable packaging made from natural biopolymers such as polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids can meet packaging requirements while being renewable, recyclable, and environmentally friendly. In particular, edible films and coatings serve as barriers to gas and moisture, extending food shelf life to reduce quality deterioration. This study focuses on optimizing the inclusion level of corn starch (10% - 14%) along with Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) at different pH ranges (2.3 - 2.8) in edible film formulation using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The films were evaluated based on physical and mechanical properties, such as thickness, tensile strength, grammage, water absorption, and water vapor permeability. The optimum formulation of edible films using NADES (Lactic acid – Glucose) for meeting the set criteria of response functions was corn starch concentration of 14% and a pH 3

Keywords

Edible film, Corn starch, NADES, Lactic acid – Glucose

Conclusion

This study investigated the influence of corn starch concentration and pH on the properties of edible films derived from NADES. The results demonstrated that both factors significantly impacted the film's thickness, grammage, tensile strength, water vapor permeability, and water absorption capacity. An increase in corn starch concentration generally reduced film thickness, grammage, tensile strength, and water vapor permeability. Conversely, higher pH values tended to increase film thickness and tensile strength while decreasing water vapor permeability and water absorption capacity. The interaction between corn starch concentration and pH was also evident. At lower pH levels, increasing corn starch concentration had a more pronounced effect on reducing film properties. At higher pH levels, the cross-linking effect dominated, mitigating the impact of corn starch. Based on these findings, an optimal formulation was identified as 14% corn starch concentration at pH 3.0with the desired properties of thickness, strength, and permeability. This formulation resulted in a film with desirable properties, including suitable thickness, adequate mechanical strength, and good barrier properties

References

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How to cite this article

Esther Magdalene Sharon M. and Geetha P. (2024). Optimization of Corn Starch- Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent based Novel Edible Film Formulation Using RSM. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(10): 180-185