Apigenin@ZIF-8 with pH-responsive sustained release function added to propolis-gelatin films achieved an outstanding antibacterial effect

• Published in: Food packaging and shelf life Vol. 40; p. 101191
• Main Authors: Wang, Lihan, Cheng, Shasha, Qin, Kaiwen, Yang, Xinyan, Wang, Hao, Man, Chaoxin, Zhao, Qianyu, Jiang, Yujun
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2023
• Subjects: Composite material; Packaging film; PH-responsive; Synergistic antibacterial; ZIF-8; Packaging film; Synergistic antibacterial; ZIF-8; PH-responsive; Composite material
• ISSN: 2214-2894; 2214-2894
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fpsl.2023.101191

Packaging films containing antibacterial substances play a crucial role in controlling contamination caused by food-borne pathogens. Herein, apigenin (APG) was encapsulated in zeolitic imidazolate frameworks 8 (ZIF-8) to achieve a synergistic antibacterial effect and prolonged drug release, aiming to extend the shelf life of food products. Under acidic condition, the release rate of APG reached 73.70 % after 12 h. Subsequently, propolis-gelatin (PG) films were prepared for food packaging. The addition of APG@ZIF-8 enhanced the hydrophobicity of PG films, making them more suitable for food packaging. However, the composite film exhibited reduced damage resistance and flexibility. The composite films demonstrated 100 % inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli under appropriate amount of APG@ZIF-8. The composite film coating significantly reduced the bacteria count on apple surfaces by 99.95% during storage, while maintaining their appearance. This study provides an effective way to develop novel antibacterial composite films. [Display omitted] •APG@ZIF-8 complex and propolis-gelatin composite films were prepared.•ZIF-8 was used as the carrier to realize pH-responsive sustained release of APG.•The introduction of APG@ZIF-8 made the films more suitable for food packaging.•APG@ZIF-8-PG films achieved inhibition against bacteriostasis.•APG@ZIF-8-PG films showed good effects on delaying apple spoilage.