Development and characterisation of gelatine/palm wax/lemongrass essential oil (GPL)‐coated paper for active food packaging

This research focused on the enhancement of paper through the incorporation of a biodegradable and hydrophobic film coating with antioxidant properties. The effects of different lemongrass essential oil (LEO) concentrations (0–12%) on the physical, mechanical, microstructural, water‐resistance, antioxidant and biodegradable properties of gelatine/palm wax/lemongrass essential oil (GPL)‐coated paper were analysed. Uncoated paper was used as a control. The GPL‐coated papers were heat sealable and had significantly (p < 0.05) higher tensile strength and stretchability but lower stiffness than those of the control paper. The GPL‐coated paper incorporated with higher LEO concentrations showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the initial contact angle while also demonstrating significant (p < 0.05) reductions in the Cobb value and water vapour permeability. The GC–MS analysis revealed that LEO was highly dominated by monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and their oxygenated derivatives, supporting that all GPL‐coated papers have a good amount of total phenolic compounds and free radical scavenging activities, which improved significantly (p < 0.05) with higher LEO concentrations. In conclusion, the GPL film coating was capable of improving the physical, mechanical and functional properties of Kraft paper and has the potential to be applied for food products. Active gelatine/palm wax/lemongrass essential oil (GPL)‐coated paper was developed. The GPL‐coated paper had enhanced mechanical and water resistance properties as well as good antioxidant activity compared to the uncoated paper. Overall, the GPL‐coated paper with 12% lemongrass essential oil exhibited the best physicomechanical and functional properties.