Biodegradable bacterial cellulose hesperetin nanoparticle composite films for food packaging with antibacterial, antioxidant, and UV-blocking properties

Films derived from polysaccharides, such as bacterial cellulose (BC), present promising alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastics but suffer from brittleness and a lack of bioactivity. To address these limitations, hesperetin nanoparticles (HST-NPs) were synthesized through a Mannich reaction and incorporated into BC films. The HST-NPs served dual roles by improving ductility as nanofillers and providing functionality as bioactive components. Compared with the pure BC film, the composite films showed a 34.75% increase in elongation at break, and its contact angle reached 72.55°, reflecting improved flexibility and hydrophobicity. The incorporation of HST-NPs provided UV-blocking, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, thereby extending strawberry shelf life. Soil degradation tests confirmed that the composite films degraded within 15 days, similar to pure BC films. This study presents an approach to improve the mechanical, bioactive, and environmental performance of BC-based films, demonstrating significant potential for sustainable food packaging.