Gelatin-Based Nanocomposite Films: Potential Use in Antimicrobial Active Packaging

Some inherent problems of gelatin-based films, such as poor mechanical and water resistance, can be overcome by applying recently developed nanocomposite technology. Gelatin-based nanocomposite films prepared with various types of nanofillers, such as nanoclay, organic fillers, and nanometals, have exhibited increased film properties, along with other novel properties, such as antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity, and UV-screening properties. Gelatin-based nanocomposite films blended with certain organic fillers and nanometals like nanosilver (AgNPs), nanocopper (CuNPs), zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), and titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against foodborne pathogenic microorganisms. The antimicrobial gelatin-based nanocomposite films have a high potential for application in the active food packaging industry. The recent incorporation of fruit peels, seaweed extracts, and other sustainable bioactive extracts is also discussed.