Khaberni - Scientists from Reshetnev University in Krasnoyarsk studied the effect of various additives in food packaging, which provide flexibility, on the shelf life of the products inside the packaging.
According to the university's press office, this study will help in the innovation of environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional plastic packaging.
The office notes that the researchers studied the effect of three compatible bio-based plasticizers (Triacetin (TA), Triethyl Citrate (TEC), and Tributyl Acetyl Citrate (TBAC)) on biodegradable plastic films. They discovered that Triacetin and Triethyl Citrate lead to the formation of a more porous and less homogeneous membrane surface, while Tributyl Acetyl Citrate maintains its original structure with little change, indicating high compatibility with the polymer matrix. Under conditions simulating the storage of various products (aqueous, saline, and acidic environments), there is a gradual transfer of the plasticizer from the membrane, which becomes more evident in acidic solutions. This process is accompanied by a slight decrease in the mechanical properties of the material over time.
According to Anna Sukhanova, head of the Biodegradable Polymer Materials department, the tests were conducted on a PLA membrane to which Tributyl Acetyl Citrate was added.
She says: "The polymer membrane was successfully used for storing chicken meat. It turned out that the packaging based on this technology allows for extending the shelf life of the product when refrigerated up to seven days without affecting its sensory properties. Moreover, the rate of transfer of the plasticizers to the product was very minimal, and it complies with strict international safety standards."
