Development and optimization of antifungal packaging for sliced pan loaf based on garlic as active agent and bread aroma as aroma corrector

The aim of the present work was the development of antimicrobial films containing garlic extract to be applied as active packaging for preservative-free sliced pan loaf, with the goal of extending its shelf-life. First, the antimicrobial capacity of garlic extract, a compound used as active agent, was tested against Penicillium expansum by the disc diffusion method. The extract showed high antimicrobial activity, 0.1 mu L per Petri dish being the minimum inhibitory amount, and 0.25 mu L the minimum fungicidal amount. Bread aroma was also used to mask the pungent odour of garlic and it was confirmed to have no antimicrobial activity. Subsequently, polyethylene (PE) aqueous emulsion and ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) and zein hydroalcoholic solutions containing 0.25 and 0.5% (w/w per dry polymer) of garlic extract and bread aroma were used to coat PE films, producing PE/PE, PE/EVOH and PE/zein active films. The antimicrobial capacity of the films was studied in vitro against Penicillium expansum, and in vivo with natural sliced bread. The results showed that all the films presented some antimicrobial activity, PE film coated with zein containing 0.5% of garlic extract and bread aroma being the film presenting the best results, maintaining bread free of mould infection for 30 days. Sensory tests showed that the addition of 1% of bread aroma improved the sensory experience of consumers and also revealed good purchase intention.