The effect of poly lactic acid films containing Zataria multiflora Boiss essential oil on some microbial and chemical properties of broiler chicks meat

Polymeric substances, such as poly lactic acid are used for covering food stuffs. Zataria multiflora Boiss essential oil (ZMBEO) has antioxidant and antibacterial properties that can be used for preparation of films. The present study was conducted for first time to evaluate the effect of poly lactic acid films containing ZMBEO on some microbial and chemical properties of broiler chicks meat. Poly lactic acid films were contining 0.00, 0.20, 0.40, 0.60, 0.80 and 1.00% of the ZMBEO and placed on broiler chicks meat for 12 days. Microbial tests, antioxidant properties, pH, total volatile nitrogen and sensory scores were assessed in days 0 (12 h after packaging), 3, 6, 9 and 12 after packaging. The results showed that poly lactic acid films contining 1.00% of the ZMBEO showed better antibacterial, antioxidant and senosry properties (p<0.05)and lower pH, and total volatile nitrogen compared to other groups, especially control group (p<0.05). The results show that poly lactic acid films contining ZMBEO in higher levels showed antibacterial and antioxidant properties that are attributed to active compounds of the ZMBEO and the prepared films help to maintain it. Using poly lactic acid films contining ZMBEO is suggested for packaging of feedstuffs.