25, April 2025

Antimicrobial Bioplastics: A Sustainable Approach to Food Packaging Using Algae, Tamarind, and Natural Extracts

Author(s): Dr.Bajare J.S., Kashid J.A., Shinde M.R., Gude S.S., Patil S.D., Pawar O.R., Shelke R.R., Dhundale V.R.

Authors Affiliations:

Shri Shivaji Mahavidyalaya Barshi, Solapur MH India

DOIs:10.2015/IJIRMF/202504050     |     Paper ID: IJIRMF202504050


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Abstract:    This research addresses the growing need for eco-friendly alternatives to conventional plastics, focusing on the preparation and characterization of bioplastics derived from renewable resources, specifically microalgae (Nostoc) and tamarind seed powder, enhanced with natural antimicrobial extracts for food packaging applications. The primary objective was to develop biodegradable, antimicrobial packaging films that prevent contamination and microbial growth, ensuring food safety. Bioplastics were prepared using Nostoc algae with extracts from neem, citrus peel, and cinnamon, as well as tamarind seed powder with extracts from neem, turmeric, and dry ginger. Various physical tests, including evaluations of thickness, biodegradability, water solubility, antimicrobial properties, transparency, and color,were conducted to assess the bioplastics' potential. The results demonstrated that the bioplastics exhibited key characteristics such as good mechanical strength, translucency, and biodegradability. Biodegradability tests showed significant weight loss (58.52%–72.73% for Nostoc-based and 51.08%–78.26% for tamarind-based bioplastics over 15 days in soil). Water solubility ranged from 36.41% to 56.25% for Nostoc-based bioplastics and 46.21% to 55.55% for tamarind-based bioplastics. Antimicrobial testing showed varying zones of inhibition against E. coli, Proteusspp, and Bacillusspp, depending on the antimicrobial extract used. The bioplastics also demonstrated sufficient mechanical strength and different color variations based on the incorporated extracts. In conclusion, this research highlights the potential of Nostoc algae and tamarind seed powder, enhanced with natural antimicrobial extracts, as sustainable, biodegradable materials for food packaging, contributing to the reduction of plastic waste and fostering a more sustainable future.

 

 

 

Key Words: Bioplastics, Nostocalgae, Tamarind seed powder, Food packaging, Biodegradable films, Bioplastic characterization.

Dr.Bajare J.S., Kashid J.A., Shinde M.R., Gude S.S., Patil S.D., Pawar O.R., Shelke R.R., Dhundale V.R.(2025); Antimicrobial Bioplastics: A Sustainable Approach to Food Packaging Using Algae, Tamarind, and Natural Extracts, International Journal for Innovative Research in Multidisciplinary Field, ISSN(O): 2455-0620, Vol-11, Issue-4, Pp.348-355.         Available on –   https://www.ijirmf.com/


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