Development of a carboxymethyl xylan film containing licorice essential oil with antioxidant properties to inhibit the growth of foodborne pathogens

Antioxidant and antibacterial edible films based on carboxymethyl xylan with licorice essential oil incorporated were successfully developed. The films were prepared by the casting method and characterized using FUR. The grammage, thickness, contact angle, mechanical and optical properties of the films were measured, together with the evaluation of their antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties against common foodborne pathogens. The FTIR spectra of the films clearly show the successful incorporation of the essential oil. The antioxidant properties of the films linked to scavenging free radicals and lipid peroxidation inhibition were maintained even after a storage period at room temperature (20 days, 25 degrees C). Moreover, the capacity of these films to inhibit the growth of Enterococcus faecalis and Listeria monocytogenes was demonstrated. The results also suggest the anti-biofilm potential of films incorporated with licorice essential oil. Therefore, these biodegradable films can be used in active packages for food, improving the overall shelf life.