Development of biodegradable films based on seaweed polysaccharides and Gac pulp (Momordica cochinchinensis), the waste generated from Gac oil production

• Published in: Food hydrocolloids Vol. 99; p. 105322
• Main Authors: Tran, Thuy T.B., Roach, Paul, Nguyen, Minh H., Pristijono, Penta, Vuong, Quan V.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.02.2020
• Subjects: Carrageenan; Edible film; Gac pulp; Glycerol; Optimisation; Sodium alginate; Glycerol; Sodium alginate; Carrageenan; Edible film; Optimisation; Gac pulp
• ISSN: 0268-005X; 1873-7137
• DOI: 10.1016/j.foodhyd.2019.105322

Gac (Momordica cochinchinensis) is a tropical fruit. It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. Gac pulp (or mesocarp) that accounts for 40–50% of fruit weight is commonly discarded during the processing of Gac fruit. However, this by-product is a rich source of nutrients and bioactive compounds, which are potential to produce edible films. This study aimed to determine the effect of sodium alginate, kappa-carrageenan, Gac pulp and glycerol on film properties and optimise the formula of this composite film for further applications using a response surface methodology (RSM). The results showed that sodium alginate, kappa-carrageenan, Gac pulp, and glycerol affected physical and barrier properties, colour parameters, and mechanical properties of the films. The optimal formulation to generate a composite film from Gac pulp include sodium alginate 1.03%, kappa-carrageenan 0.65%, Gac pulp 0.4%, and glycerol 0.85% (w/v), where this film produces high mechanical properties, low water vapour permeability and acceptable physical properties. This optimised film formulation demonstrates a potential for food application. [Display omitted] •Gac pulp accounts for about 50% of fruit weight and is the waste from oil production.•It is cheap but rich in pectin, essential oil, fibre and carotenoids.•Gac pulp (GP) can be used directly as novel ingredient to produce edible film.•A good film is formed when it combines with sodium alginate and kappa-carrageenan.•Optimal formula: Sodium alginate 1.03%, kappa-carrageenan 0.65%, GP 0.4%, and glycerol 0.85% (w/v).