Improving ham shelf life with a polyhydroxybutyrate/polycaprolactone biodegradable film activated with nisin

Environmental polution and food shelf life extension are issues of global concern. In this work, biodegradable Polyhydroxybutyrate/Polycaprolactone (PHB/PCL) films and organo-clays (Cloisite((R)) 30 B and 10A) based nanocomposites were prepared. Tensile and thermal properties, water vapor barrier and activation with nisin were studied. Organo-clays addition promoted a reinforcement effect of the polymer blend, increasing barrier properties and degradation temperature. The optimal parameters for nisin adsorption to PHB/PCL film were 4000 IU cm (3), 40 degrees C and 10 min. Organo-clays exerted antimicrobial activity against Lactobacillus plantarum CRL691; nevertheless, their inclusion into the polymer blend did not lead to antimicrobial films. Nisin adsorption to PHB/PCL film was not afected by clays presence. PHB/PCL nisin activated film was effective against L. plantarum CRL691 (used as processed meat spoilage bacterium model) inoculated on sliced ham, thus extending its shelf life. PHB/PCL blend and its nanocomposites activated with nisin showed potential for their application in processed meat packaging. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.