In the quest for sustainable food packaging solutions, a team of researchers from Universitas Gadjah Mada in Indonesia has made a significant stride. Led by Salsabila Aulia Firda from the Department of Chemical Engineering, the team has developed innovative agar-based bioplastics enriched with cocoa pod husk extract. This research, published in the E3S Web of Conferences (translated as the Environmental, Energy, and Sustainable Science Web of Conferences), presents a promising advancement in the field of eco-friendly food packaging.
The study focuses on creating biodegradable active films that not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance food preservation. By incorporating phenolic-rich cocoa pod husk (CPH) extract and glycerol into agar-based films, the researchers have developed a material with exceptional functionality. “The optimal formulation, containing 25% w/w CPH and 40% glycerol, demonstrated remarkable properties,” Firda explains. “This includes enhanced structural integrity, barrier properties, and thermal stability, all of which are crucial for food packaging applications.”
One of the standout features of these bioplastics is their antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activity of bioplastics added with phenolic compounds of cocoa pod husk extract at 10, 15, and 25% w/w, analysed by the DPPH method, obtained results of 45.72 ± 0.27, 47.45 ± 0.06, and 56.85 ± 0.06, respectively, and the water vapour permeability was 907.26 g/m2day. This property is vital for extending the shelf life of perishable foods, as it helps to prevent oxidation and spoilage. The hydrogen bonding interaction among the components of the blend films led to enhanced structural, barrier, thermal stability, miscibility, antioxidant properties, and smooth surface morphology of the blend films. The use of green deep eutectic solvent (DES) extraction further ensures that the bioactivity of the cocoa pod husk extract is preserved, making it a more effective antioxidant agent compared to conventional methods.
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. As the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging continues to grow, the development of such bioplastics offers a viable alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics. “This research not only addresses the pressing need for sustainable packaging but also aligns with the principles of the circular economy,” Firda notes. “By utilizing agricultural waste such as cocoa pod husks, we are transforming a byproduct into a valuable resource, thereby reducing waste and promoting sustainability.”
The potential applications of these agar/CPH films extend beyond food packaging. Their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties make them suitable for various industries, including pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. The enhanced mechanical strength and barrier properties ensure that the packaged products remain fresh and uncontaminated, thereby reducing food waste and improving overall product quality.
As the world grapples with the challenges of environmental degradation and resource depletion, innovations like these bioplastics offer a beacon of hope. They represent a step towards a more sustainable future, where the principles of the circular economy are not just ideals but practical realities. The research conducted by Salsabila Aulia Firda and her team is a testament to the power of scientific innovation in addressing global challenges and paving the way for a greener, more sustainable tomorrow.