Biodegradable PVA/chitosan-based films enriched with rose hip extract and seed oil: Investigation of the influence of tragacanth gum ratio on functional properties and its application in cherry preservation

TAKTAK F. F., KAYA O. N.

International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, vol.307, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 307
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.141023
  • Journal Name: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, BIOSIS, Biotechnology Research Abstracts, CAB Abstracts, Chemical Abstracts Core, EMBASE, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, INSPEC, Veterinary Science Database
  • Keywords: Antioxidant activity, Biodegradable packaging, Biopolymer films, Food packaging, Rosehip extract, Rosehip seed oil, Sweet cherry preservation, Tragacanth gum
  • Uşak University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study focuses on the development of polyvinyl alcohol-chitosan-tragacanth gum composite films enriched with rosehip extract and seed oil for the packaging of active foods. The films were tested for their antioxidant activity, transparency, biodegradability, water vapor permeability and effectiveness in preserving sweet cherries under seasonal high temperature conditions. The addition of tragacanth, rosehip extract and rosehip seed oil significantly influenced the mechanical properties by increasing elongation at break and tensile strength. Films enriched with rosehip seed oil effectively reduced weight loss and preserved the sensory properties of the cherries, while films based on rosehip extract exhibited superior antioxidant properties with increased free radical scavenging activity. Biodegradability tests showed that all films degraded under soil conditions, with the rate of degradation depending on the concentration of tragacanth gum. The water vapor permeability results showed that the addition of rosehip extract and seed oil significantly reduced the water vapor permeability and improved the barrier properties of the films. Preservation tests showed that these films minimized titratable acidity, oxidative stress and moisture loss, effectively extending the shelf life of sweet cherries under highly stressful conditions. These results highlight the potential of rosehip-enriched biopolymer films as a sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging alternative to extend the shelf life of perishable fruits.