An active and multifunctional curcumin-zein composite film for shelf-life extension in sustainable food packaging

Conventional plastic packaging faces significant challenges due to its non-biodegradable nature and lack of active preservation functionality, leading to environmental pollution and food waste. To address these issues, this study developed a curcumin-zein composite film as a multifunctional active packaging material based on natural polymers. Systematic characterization confirmed that curcumin was incorporated into the zein matrix through intermolecular interactions. Functional evaluations demonstrated that the composite film exhibits excellent UV-shielding performance, remarkable antioxidant and antibacterial activities, as well as favorable biodegradability and biosafety. In preservation tests on cherry tomatoes and black grapes, the 5% Cur-Zein composite film effectively delayed fruit quality deterioration, reducing weight loss, color changes, and nutrient consumption. This study demonstrates that the Cur-Zein composite film represents a green and high-performance active packaging material with good potential for reducing food loss and extending the shelf life of fruits.