Design of nanocomposite packaging based on gelatin biopolymer containing titanium dioxide nanoparticles and saffron extract for use in food packaging

In this study, biodegradable packaging based on gelatin biopolymer (at a concentration of 3% w/w) containing nanoparticles of titanium dioxide (at a concentration of 1% w/w) and saffron extract (at a concentration of 2% v) by evaporation method was synthesized. In this study, physical properties (thickness, transparency, moisture content, solubility and water vapor permeability), mechanical, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, structural and transparency properties of films were investigated. After analyzing the data, the results showed that the effect of saffron extract and titanium dioxide nanoparticles on all the studied properties was significant (P <0.05). Addition of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and saffron extract increased the thickness, improved the mechanical properties and reduced the moisture content, water vapor permeability, transparency, and solubility. Also, nanocomposite films containing titanium dioxide nanoparticles and saffron extract showed antioxidant properties (% 80%) and acceptable antimicrobial effects, especially against gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. According to the results of this study, this type of packaging can be suggested as a suitable alternative to synthetic packaging.