Effect of edible coating of Basil seed mucilage with different levels of black Caraway extract on quality and shelf life of lactic cheese

In recent years, the tendency to use antimicrobial films and coatings has increased, which has increased the quality, safety and shelf life of food. In this study, basil seed mucilage coating containing different concentrations of Caraway extract (0, 1, 2.5 and 5%) was used to increase the shelf life of lactic cheese. Cheese samples were subjected to various microbial, physicochemical and sensory tests. The results of physicochemical evaluation showed that with increasing the storage period, moisture content and pH decreased and acidity increased in all coated cheeses. Sensory evaluation of lactic cheeses showed that the aroma, taste and overall acceptance of coated cheeses containing lower concentrations of Caraway (1 and 2.5%) were better compared to the control sample, while in coated cheeses Containing high concentrations of the extract (5%) due to the negative effect of Caraway extract on the organoleptic properties of cheese, the overall acceptance was significantly reduced. Coating with basil seed mucilage and Caraway extract significantly reduced the total count of bacteria and molds compared to the control sample.  Also, the total microbial count and the number of mold and yeast in all samples increased over time and this increase was more in the control sample. In general, it can be concluded that the oral coating of basil seeds mucilage containing Caraway extract can be used in food packaging systems, especially for lactic cheese.