Characterization of chitosan based polyelectrolyte films incorporated with OSA-modified gum arabic-stabilized cinnamon essential oil emulsions

Octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) modified gum arabic (GA) was synthesized and used as an emulsifier to stabilize cinnamon essential oil (CEO) emulsions. The structure and properties of chitosan based polyelectrolyte films incorporated with above OSA-GA stabilized CEO emulsions were investigated. Results showed that OSA modification introduced the hydrophobic groups, which greatly influenced the emulsification capability of GA. The antimicrobial activities of CEO emulsions were significantly enhanced by the synergistic effect of GA modification and ultrasonic treatment. When the proportions of CEO emulsion increased, the improved water barrier properties but deteriorated tensile properties of films were observed. The retention of CEO during storage was prolonged to 20 days and the release of CEO in food simulant was effectively inhibited as emulsion ratios increased to 20%, indicating the effectiveness of the system for CEO delivery. As a result, the antimicrobial activities of films significantly enhanced with the innovative incorporation of OSA-GA stabilized CEO emulsions. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.