Taweechai Amornsakchai This study investigates the development of active food packaging films made from pineapple stem starch (PSS) reinforced with carbon dots (CDs) synthesized from pineapple leaf waste. Utilizing a green, hydrothermal method, CDs averaging 2.36 ± 0.33 nm were produced and incorporated at various concentrations (1–6% w/w) into PSS films. The resulting PSS-CDs films exhibited improved UV-blocking, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, especially at 3% CD loading, which emerged as the optimal formulation. Mechanical testing revealed enhanced tensile strength, while transparency remained acceptable for food packaging. Water vapor transmission rate, solubility, and swelling were modestly affected, with the 3% CD film showing favorable performance. When applied to fresh pork, the PSS-CDs3% film significantly delayed discoloration, odor formation, and total volatile base nitrogen (TVB-N) accumulation under both UV exposure and refrigerated storage. The multifunctionality of the films—sourced entirely from agricultural waste—highlights a promising, sustainable alternative to conventional plastic packaging. These findings support the use of PSS-CDs films as biodegradable, active packaging materials that improve food shelf-life while valorizing pineapple industry by-products.

Reference:

“Pineapple Stem Starch-based Films Incorporated with Pineapple Leaf Carbon Dots as Functional Filler for Active Food Packaging Applications”, Kuchaiyaphum, P., Amornsakchai, T., Chotichayapong, C., . Saengsuwan, N., Yordsri, V., Thanachayanont, C., .Batpo, P., Sotawong, P., Int. J. Biol. Macromol. 2024, 282, 137224.