Preparation and characterization of chitosan-citric acid edible films loaded with Cornelian cherry pomace extract as active packaging materials

The development of environmentally-friendly, intelligent and active packaging materials is crucial for the protection of food products and the prevention of environmental pollution. This work aimed to study the development of chitosan films containing an extract form Cornelian cherry pomace extract, a by-product of juice production. Citirc acid was utilized as an alternative acidifier and the effect of β-cyclodextrin incorporation on film properties was evaluated. Compared to chitosan-acetic acid films, the films produced in the present study were found to be more elastic, with a lower moisture content and higher water solubility as well as water vapor permeability. Moreover, the obtained results showed that the increase of β-cyclodextrin concentration from 0.45 to 1.85 % w/v improved the mechanical and water vapor barrier properties of the film. Addition of the Cornelian cherry pomace extracts resulted in alteration of the color of the prepared films as well as improvement of the light barrier properties. Also, the presence of the phenolic compounds in the film matrix enhanced the antioxidant activity of the prepared films. [Display omitted] •An active chitosan film containing Cornelian cherry pomace extract was developed.•Citric acid and β-cyclodextrin enhanced the elasticity of the chitosan films.•Cornelian cherry extract improved the antioxidant and light barrier properties.•The composite films could be a promising material for food packaging.