Development of nanochitosan‐based active packaging films containing free and nanoliposome caraway (Carum carvi. L) seed extract

The biocompatible active films were prepared based on nanochitosan (NCh) containing free and nanoliposome caraway seed extract (NLCE). The produced films were characterized by physico‐mechanical, barrier, structural, color, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. The average particle size of NLCE was 78–122 nm, and the encapsulation efficiency (EE%) was obtained 49.87%–73.07%. Nanoliposomes with the lowest size and the highest encapsulation efficiency were merged with the film samples. NCh/CE3% and NCh/NLCE3% films had higher stability compared to other films and showed the highest antimicrobial activity (3.68 mm inhibition) and radical quenching capacity (51%), respectively. Likewise, biodegradable active films containing nanoliposomes had lower antimicrobial potential and higher antioxidant capacity than films containing free extract with similar concentration. The Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results revealed new interactions between NCh and nanoliposomes. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigation also exhibited a homogenous structure and nearly smooth surface morphology with a good dispersion for NCh/NLCE films. Despite an increase in yellowness (b value) and a decrease in whiteness (L value) index, the incorporation of nanoliposomes within the NCh films improved the mechanical flexibility (from 10.2% to 15.05%) and reduced water vapor permeability (WVP) (from 14.2 × 10–12 g/m·s·Pa to 11.9 × 10–12 g/m·s·Pa). Today, due to the growing trend toward natural ingredients, the use of nanoparticles derived from plant derivatives has expanded in the food industry owing to their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The article describes the development of eco‐friendly nanostructured chitosan films that might be used as biodegradable packaging materials to replace plastics. In particular, it shows that the physical, mechanical, barrier, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of nanocomposite films can be modulated by adding essential oil nanoliposomes into chitosan matric.