Polyvinyl alcohol film with chlorine dioxide microcapsules can be used for blueberry preservation by slow-release of chlorine dioxide gas
Hongxia Su, Zhanpeng Chen, Yuan Zhao, Jiejie An, Haohe Huang, Ren Liu, Chongxing Huang
Abstract
Introduction Chlorine dioxide (ClO 2 ) is a safe and efficient bactericide with unique advantages in reducing foodborne illnesses, inhibiting microbial growth, and maintaining the nutritional quality of food. However, gaseous ClO 2 is sensitive to heat, vibration, and light, which limits its application. Methods In this study, a ClO 2 precursor-stabilized ClO 2 aqueous solution was encapsulated by the double emulsion method, and a high-performance ClO 2 self-releasing polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film was prepared to investigate its performance and effect on blueberry quality during storage. Results The self-releasing films had the best overall performance when the microcapsule content was 10% as the film's mechanical properties, thermal stability, and film barrier properties were significantly improved. The inhibition rates of Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli were 93.69% and 95.55%, respectively, and the mycelial growth of Staphylococcus griseus was successfully inhibited. The resulting ClO 2 self-releasing films were used for blueberry preservation, and an experimental study found that the ClO 2 self-releasing antimicrobial film group delayed the quality decline of blueberries. During the 14-day storage period, no mold contamination was observed in the ClO 2 self-releasing film group, and blueberries in the antibacterial film group had higher anthocyanin accumulation during the storage period. Discussion Research analysis showed that films containing ClO 2 microcapsules are promising materials for future fruit and vegetable packaging.