β-Cyclodextrin–encapsulated eugenol essential oil in chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol coaxial electrospun films: Structural, release, and antibacterial properties

β-Cyclodextrin–encapsulated eugenol essential oil (β-CD@EEO) was incorporated into chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol (CS/PVA) coaxial electrospun films to develop biodegradable active packaging materials. The structural, physicochemical, release, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of the films were evaluated. Structural characterization confirmed successful encapsulation of EEO within β-CD and uniform distribution in the fibrous matrix, resulting in continuous films with predominantly amorphous structures. Incorporation of β-CD@EEO increased fiber diameter and surface hydrophobicity, while modifying internal morphology. Mechanical strength and water vapor permeability varied with EEO loading, whereas flexibility and thermal stability were improved compared with the control film. Release studies demonstrated sustained and temperature-dependent diffusion of EEO, with lower release rates at 4 °C. Antioxidant activity increased significantly with EEO concentration. The films also exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus , confirming that the bioactivity of EEO was preserved after encapsulation and electrospinning. In practical application tests, the films effectively delayed microbial spoilage of bread, with the 2.5% EEO formulation showing optimal performance. Overall, β-CD@EEO-loaded CS/PVA electrospun films combine controlled release, antioxidant and antibacterial functions, and biodegradability, demonstrating strong potential as sustainable active packaging materials for food preservation.