Soy protein – Poly (lactic acid) bilayer films as biodegradable material for active food packaging

The preparation and characterization of biodegradable bilayer films from isolated soy protein (SPI) and poly (lactic acid) (PLA) were carried out in this work. The films showed high transparency and strong adhesion between layers without adding an extra component, or without chemically modifying the film surfaces. The application of the PLA layer largely increased the mechanical properties of the films with respect to those of pure SPI films. Furthermore, the hydrophobic characteristics of the PLA layer improved film performance under conditions in which water was involved, markedly decreasing the amount of total soluble matter, the swelling index and the water vapor permeability. The biodegradation under soil burial conditions was evaluated measuring weight loss as a function of time, showing a two-step degradation and a faster degradation rate for the protein component compared to those of PLA layer. The films prepared were evaluated as active packaging by incorporation of an antifungal and an antibacterial agent (natamycin and thymol, respectively) to the SPI layer, showing a marked growth inhibition of mold, yeast and two strains of bacteria by in-vitro microbiological assays. •A SPI/PLA bilayer film was prepared (by the “casting” method) and characterized.•Functional properties of the films were significantly improved by the PLA addition.•Results showed that SPI film degraded in 55 days and addition of PLA reduced degradation rate.•Incorporation of active agents (thymol and natamycin) resulted in enhancement of antimicrobial activity of film. [Display omitted]