Use of nano-clay (Cloisite Na plus ) improves tensile strength and vapour permeability in agar rich red algae (Gelidium corneum)-gelatin composite films

P>In this study, we aimed to improve the physical properties of Gelidium corneum-gelatin (GCG) film by including nano-clay in the film-forming solution and tested the antimicrobial properties of the thymol-containing composite film as a packaging material for chicken breast. Addition of nano-clay improved the physical properties of GCG film. The tensile strength of the GCG film containing 1% Cloisite Na+ was 38.13 MPa, compared to the 26.65 MPa for the GCG film. The water vapour permeability of the GCG film was 3.56 ng m m-2sPa, while that of the GCG film with 1% Cloisite Na+ was 3.24 ng m m-2sPa. Incorporation of thymol into the film had its antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes. When used to pack chicken breast, the GCG/nano-clay film containing thymol inhibited microbial growth during storage.