| Abstract [eng] |
Since plastic is still one of the most widely used materials for packaging, alternatives are being sought to replace commonly used plastic packaging materials with more ecological, less polluting, biodegradable and functional packaging materials. Bioplastics are considered one of the alternatives that have attracted the attention of scientists and researchers. However, like any material, it has advantages and disadvantages. In this project, 12 films were made from potato starch, distilled water, glycerin, and essential oils: clove, oregano, rosemary, tea tree. In addition to all this, 1 control film was produced without essential oils. The study showed changes in the thickness of the packaging films, the structure of the films was examined, and tensile and color change tests were performed according to the type and amount of different essential oils. Daily weighing and visual inspections of strawberries packed in starch-based films were carried out over a 14-day period to evaluate differences in strawberry shelf life between the different additives used in the films. The obtained data showed that these films did not withstand high forces and showed minimal elongations, while increasing the amount of essential oils worsened their mechanical properties. However, essential oils such as clove and rosemary showed a positive effect on strawberry freshness and no mold or discoloration was observed using visual assessment, but tea tree and clove essential oils did not show a positive effect on strawberry freshness. These films are still not fully applicable in production for the packaging, but they are environmentally friendly, and after more detailed research and improvement of the mechanical properties of these materials, these materials can be considered as alternatives to replace traditional plastics. In addition, the use of essential oils could extend the shelf life of products from 4 to 14 days and reduce food waste by at least 3.5 times. |
