Development of Biodegradable Starch-Based Edible Films Enhanced with Periwinkle Extracts for Sustainable Food Packaging

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable and biodegradable packaging materials has driven the development of edible films with antimicrobial properties. This study explores the potential of potato starch-based edible films incorporated with periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) extract as a natural antimicrobial agent. The antimicrobial activity of the periwinkle extract was evaluated using the Agar Well Diffusion Method against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. The results indicated a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect, with the highest inhibition observed at 100 µg/mL. Further identification of these compounds was conducted using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), which provided insights into the specific antimicrobial components present in periwinkle extract. The optimal antimicrobial concentration was then incorporated into potato starch-based films, which were characterized for physicochemical properties (moisture content, solubility), mechanical properties (tensile strength, flexibility), and antimicrobial efficacy in food packaging applications. The results demonstrated that the developed films exhibited promising antimicrobial activity and desirable mechanical properties, making them a viable alternative to conventional plastic packaging. This study highlights the potential of periwinkle extract as a natural antimicrobial additive in biodegradable edible films, contributing to sustainable food packaging solutions.