Characterization of antioxidant methylcellulose film incorporated with α-tocopherol nanocapsules

Biodegradable and antioxidant films based on methylcellulose (MC) and alpha-tocopherol nanocapsule suspension (NCs) were developed. MC and NCs films were prepared by a casting method in three different proportions. The mechanical, wettability, colour, light transmission, antioxidant and release characteristics of the films were studied. The addition of NCs to MC films decreased the tensile strength (TS) and the elastic modulus (EM) (p < 0.05) but increased the percentage elongation at break (%E) and thickness (p < 0.05). NCs films showed a higher hydrophobicity when compared to that of film control. Lightness and yellowish color were intensified in the NCs films which, in their turn, demonstrated high antioxidant activity and excellent barrier properties against UV and visible light. A burst and prolonged release of alpha-tocopherol to food simulant was also reported. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.