Preparation, characterization, and antibacterial evaluation of novel biodegradable self‐healing film based on fish collagen cross‐linked carboxymethyl cellulose

Biodegradable films are widely explored to reduce environmental pollution. One of the best alternatives to reduce packaging waste is using biodegradable polymers. Fish collagen is gaining interest for its high biocompatibility and lack of religious or social restrictions compared with terrestrial collagen sources. This study aimed to prepare and characterize a biodegradable, antibacterial fish collagen‐based film (isinglass) cross‐linked with carboxymethyl cellulose, showcasing good mechanical performance, moisture barrier properties, and self‐healing capabilities. The films were prepared by mixing a solution of isinglass (IG) with different carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) contents (0.1, 0.25, and 0.4 g) using triethanolamine (TEA) as a plasticizer. Up to the results, the optimized film contained 0.4 g CMC and 0.5 mL TEA. Morphological characteristics were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the interactions between the functional groups were analyzed using FT‐IR. The optimized CMC‐IG film possessed a tensile stress of around 1.02–3.32 MPa and an elongation at a break of 176%–241%. Moreover, the films showed a good self‐healing property and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. The good mechanical properties, antibacterial activity, self‐healing, and good moisture barrier made this thin film a good choice for food packaging applications. Highlights Biodegradable film was made from fish collagen and carboxymethyl cellulose. The film shows tensile stress of 1.02–3.32 MPa; elongation at break: 176%–241%. The thin film exhibits self‐healing, flexibility, and an effective moisture barrier. Excellent mechanical properties and antibacterial activity suitable for food packaging. The developed fish collagen‐based film, cross‐linked with carboxymethyl cellulose, exhibits remarkable mechanical strength, moisture resistance, and self‐healing properties, alongside effective antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli, positioning it as a viable and sustainable option for food packaging solutions.