Development and characterization of dialdehyde xanthan gum crosslinked gelatin based edible films incorporated with amino-functionalized montmorillonite

Gelatin-Based Films and Coatings for Food Packaging Applications

This review discusses the latest advances in the composition of gelatin-based edible films and coatings, including nanoparticle addition, and their properties are reviewed along their potential for application in the food packaging industry. Gelatin is an important biopolymer derived from collagen and is extensively used by various industries because of its technological and functional properties. Nowadays, a very wide range of components are available to be included as additives to improve its properties, as well as its applications and future potential. Antimicrobials, antioxidants and other agents are detailed due to the fact that an increasing awareness among consumers regarding healthy lifestyle has promoted research into novel techniques and additives to prolong the shelf life of food products. Thanks to its ability to improve global food quality, gelatin has been particularly considered in food preservation of meat and fish products, among others.

Biological properties of dialdehyde carboxymethyl cellulose crosslinked gelatin-PEG composite hydrogel fibers for wound dressings

Gelatin-based composite hydrogel fibers were prepared by gel-spinning with PEG6000 as the modifier. Dialdehyde carboxymethyl cellulose (DCMC), as an ideal crosslinking reagent for protein, was used to fix the composite hydrogel fibers. Then the biological properties of the hydrogel fibers for wound dressings were evaluated. The results indicate that the hydrogen bond interactions and CN linkages between gelatin and DCMC can be formed. The addition of DCMC can efficiently improve the mechanical properties, enzymatic stability and blood compatibility of the hydrogel fibers. Crosslinking with DCMC can reduce the degree of swelling of the hydrogel fibers, which is beneficial for hydrogel fibers to avoid undesired reduction in mechanical properties. Moreover, the composite hydrogel fibers present three-dimensional structure, porous networks and low cytotoxicity. The study suggests that DCMC is an effective crosslinking reagent for biomaterials fixation. The developed composite hydrogel fibers can be well-suited for biomedical applications such as wound dressings.