Development of fish collagen/ sodium alginate-based bio-composite loaded with green-synthesised silver nanoparticles and orange peel extract as a packaging film

Abstract

In the current investigation, an eco-friendly packaging film comprising fish skin-derived collagen (COL), Sodium Alginate (SA) functionalised with Orange Peel Extract (OPE), and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was fabricated. Notably, the synergistic action of nano-fillers and peel extracts in the film matrix significantly (p < 0.05) improves the mechanical and light barrier properties and antioxidant activity of the COL/SA bio-composite. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) illustrated pronounced alterations in the microstructure of the COL/SA film. At the same time, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed intricate structural interactions within the matrix, predominantly through hydrogen bonding. Furthermore, the freshness of the fresh basa fillet attributes during 12 days of refrigerated storage was monitored, and the evaluation depicted that the film with combined treatments (COL/SA/OPE/AgNPs) retards lipid oxidation, inhibits bacterial growth, and enhances the sensory score, effectively. These findings underscore the promising potential of these films as innovative and effective packaging materials.