An active packaging film prepared from aqueous two-phase Pickering emulsion and chitosan for fruit preservation

Aqueous two-phase Pickering emulsions (ATPPEs) are advantageous because they are biocompatible and environmentally friendly. Developing active packaging films using ATPPE with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and sustained-release properties is an effective strategy to extend food shelf life. In this study, an ATPPE stabilized by cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) was prepared using a polyethylene glycol (PEG)/dextran (Dex) aqueous two-phase system (ATPS), encapsulating epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) as a bioactive component. An active packaging films based on chitosan and EGCG-loaded ATPPE were prepared and characterized, which revealed that the ATPPE is highly biocompatible with the chitosan matrix. And the prepared composite film provides protection and sustained release for EGCG, as well as excellent mechanical, barrier, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. This composite film significantly inhibited the spoilage of bananas and tomatoes, extending their shelf life to 8 and 12 d, respectively. Hence, the developed active packaging film is a promising material for fruit preservation.