Effects of various antimicrobial polyvinyl alcohol/tea polyphenol composite films on the shelf life of packaged strawberries

In this study, we developed and tested various antimicrobial polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/tea polyphenol (TP) composite films intended to extend the shelf life of packaged strawberries. Each PVA/TP film with volumetric ratios of 10/0, 9/1, 8/2, 7/3, 6/4 and 5/5 was prepared using tap-casting methods and characterized with respect to its infrared spectrum, tensile strength, oxygen permeability, water solubility, biodegradation, and antimicrobial properties. The effects of the various composite films were subsequently evaluated based on the fruit's weight loss, decay rate, firmness, pH, titratable acidity, and soluble solids. The results indicated that the PVA/TP-8/2 composite film effectively retarded the fruit's weight and firmness loss. In addition, the PVA/TP-8/2 composite film significantly retarded the fruit's titratable acid and soluble solid loss and limited microbial proliferation. Among the various antimicrobial composite films tested, the PVA/TP-8/2 composite film exhibited significant potential as a packaging material that would extend the shelf life of strawberries.