Characterization and application of zein-based composite films functionalized with PVA and peppermint extract in the preservation of harvested bell pepper

Venkateshwarlu, Dheeravathu and Nandini Shetty, P. (2025) Characterization and application of zein-based composite films functionalized with PVA and peppermint extract in the preservation of harvested bell pepper. Journal of Postharvest Biology and Technology, 230. pp. 1-13.

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Abstract

Capsicum annuum.L (bell pepper) is a very cultivated and economically important crop. However, the short shelf life of the fruit, due to its non-climacteric ripening nature and susceptibility to mechanical damage, leads to significant postharvest losses. Edible packing has emerged as a promising and sustainable solution to preserve quality attributes and extend shelf life during storage. In this study, we developed a composite film by blending zein (Z) and polyvinyl alcohol (P), with peppermint extract (M). The mixture of Z, P, and M (ZPM films) exhibited higher antioxidant (DPPH (42 %) and ABTS (52 %)) and antimicrobial activity compared to Z and P films, and the incorporation of peppermint extract improved UV light protection (22 %). FTIR, XRD, and SEM analyses confirmed the interaction between Z, polymer, and peppermint extract. Films were applied to preserve bell peppers and evaluated over 9 d at room temperature for their structural, physical, mechanical, and anti- oxidant properties. Bell peppers packed in ZPM films showed reduced weight loss (2.9 %), delayed softening, and better antioxidant activity compared to control fruits. The H₂O₂ content (5 mol kg 1) was significantly higher in control fruits than in those packed with ZPM films. Additionally, we examined the relative gene expression and specific activity of cell wall-degrading enzymes in bell peppers. Fruit packed in ZPM films exhibited lower enzyme activity and expression fold change than the control, suggesting delayed cell wall degradation. These findings demonstrate that ZPM films offer an effective and sustainable food preservation method, extending the shelf life of bell peppers while supporting the development of eco-friendly food packaging.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Capsicum annuum.L, Composite film, Enzymes, Post-harvest, Shelf-life, bell pepper
Subjects:	500 Natural Sciences and Mathematics > 04 Chemistry and Allied Sciences > 27 Polymer Chemistry 600 Technology > 08 Food technology > 30 Spices/Condiments 600 Technology > 08 Food technology > 06 Preservation and Storage
Divisions:	Plant Cell Biotechnology
Depositing User:	Somashekar K S
Date Deposited:	07 Oct 2025 06:49
Last Modified:	07 Oct 2025 06:49
URI:	http://ir.cftri.res.in/id/eprint/19902

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