Effects of nanoemulsion-based active coatings with composite mixture of star anise essential oil, polylysine, and nisin on the quality and shelf life of ready-to-eat Yao meat products

Lipid-based nanocarriers loaded with bioactive compounds in active food packaging: Fabrication, characterization, and applications

New trends in the food industry emphasize safer, more stable, eco-friendly, and value-added packaging solutions. Active packaging has emerged to release or absorb bioactive components, which are often sensitive to physical, chemical and/or enzymatic factors as well as being unstable. Lipid-based nanocarriers (nanoemulsions, nanoliposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers) have demonstrated their industrial potential and efficiency in the uptake, protection, bioavailability and controlled/targeted release of a wide variety of water-soluble, fat-soluble or amphiphilic bioactive substances. Additionally, their reduced size and consequently, high surface-to-volume ratio, give them unique physicochemical attributes, novel characteristics in the final product and biocompatibility as well as adhesion strength with the food packaging, without altering the sensory attributes of the food. Despite these benefits, challenges related to stability, regulatory concerns, and large-scale production must be addressed. This review examines the fabrication, characterization, and application of lipid-based nanocarriers in active food packaging, emphasizing their benefits, challenges, and future potential while further exploring their successful integration into the food packaging industry.

Fabrication and characterization of Artemisia sphaerocephala Krasch. Gum-based active films containing coriander essential oil emulsion for meat preservation

Bio-based packaging holds substantial prospects due to the inherent non-toxic property and biodegradability. The potential for practical applications would be improved if the requirements of antimicrobial, antioxidant and mechanical properties could be met simultaneously. This work utilized Artemisia sphaerocephala Krasch. Gum (ASKG) (film-forming matrix) for forming the active film by adding coriander essential oil emulsion (COE) at different concentrations. The active films were systematically tested for their physicochemical properties and evaluated for their freshness preservation effect on refrigerated lamb and chicken. The results indicated that emulsion incorporation reduced the water sensitivity of the films while enhancing their barrier, mechanical, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Specifically, compared to the control ASKG film, the water solubility of the active film decreased from 42.55 % to 38.39 %, while the tensile strength (TS) and elongation at break (EAB) increased to 9.34 MPa and 62.38 %, respectively. Additionally, the active film demonstrated a high capacity for radical scavenging, with maximum 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azido-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate) diammonium salt (ABTS) radical scavenging rates of 49.87 % and 72.00 %, respectively. Combined with its antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) the active film can extend the shelf life of lamb and chicken. In summary, the prepared ASKG active film exhibits excellent comprehensive properties and holds significant potential as a packaging material for fresh meat preservation.

Starch nanoparticle loading cinnamon essential oil encapsulated by complex coacervation of chitosan and gum Arabic improve the stability and antibacterial potential of the microcapsules

Essential oils have excellent antibacterial effects, but the rapid volatility of essential oils reduces their antibacterial effects. Therefore, the adsorption and slow release behavior of essential oils are of great significance for food preservation. This study used starch nanoparticles (SN) with different average particle sizes as carriers to adsorb cinnamon essential oil (CEO) and obtain starch nanoparticle - cinnamon essential oil (CEO-SN) complexes. Chitosan (CS) and Arabic gum (GA) composite films were used as wall materials, and sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) was used as a curing crosslinking agent to encapsulate CEO-SN, forming CEO microcapsules (CM-CEO-SN). The optimal conditions of preparing CM-CEO-SN were determined by a single-factor experiment and response surface methodology. The thermal stability, morphology, in vitro release and antibacterial potential of the microcapsules were examined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric differential thermal analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The results showed that the release rate of CM-CEO-SN300 decreased by 33.7 % and had the better slow release effect and thermal stability. In addition, CM-CEO-SN300 effectively inhibited the spoilage of cherry tomatoes during storage. These findings provide useful guidance for extending food shelf life.

A Comprehensive Review of Emulsion-Based Nisin Delivery Systems for Food Safety

Foodborne diseases are one of the most serious problems the food sector has to confront, while questions have been raised concerning the effects of several antimicrobial additives on consumer health. Nisin is a peptide produced primarily by Lactococcus lactis with antimicrobial properties mostly against Gram-positive bacteria. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in a wide range of food categories. However, its interaction with components of the food matrix, its susceptibility to proteolytic degradation, or the competitive presence of other components may limit its activity. To enhance its effectiveness against Gram-negative bacteria, its combination with essential oils or other antimicrobial components has been investigated. In addition, its encapsulation in several types of nano-delivery systems has been used to protect nisin from food matrix sequestering while regulating its release. In this review, we present how nisin is utilized, alone or in combination with other antimicrobial agents in a range of emulsion types, as well as the standard techniques for the physicochemical characterization of these systems.

Microbial Control in the Processing of Low-Temperature Meat Products: Non-Thermal Sterilization and Natural Antimicrobials

The safety and health of food have been persistent concerns, particularly about meat products. Low-temperature meat products refer to those that are processed at lower temperatures. Meat, rich in proteins and other nutrients, is highly susceptible to microbial contamination, leading to spoilage, particularly when processed at lower temperatures that increase storage and transportation requirements. In response to the limitations of conventional preservation methods, such as heat treatment and chemical bacteriostats, emerging preservation technologies are increasingly being adopted. These technologies aim to mitigate the negative effects of microorganisms on meat products. Non-thermal technologies and biotechnological approaches, which are low in energy consumption and energy efficiency, are becoming more prevalent. Non-thermal sterilization technology is widely applied in various food products. It maintains the original quality of food, enhances food safety, reduces energy consumption, and improves production efficiency. Biocides are extensively used in the antibacterial field owing to their high efficiency, low toxicity, and long-lasting properties. Both non-thermal sterilization technology and biocides can ensure food safety, extend the shelf life of food products, improve food quality, meet consumers' demand for natural and healthy food, enhance market competitiveness, and play a positive role in promoting the sustainable development of the food industry. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the specific applications of biocides and non-thermal sterilization methods in food, highlighting the control parameters and their effects on microbes during low-temperature meat processing, to supply pertinent researchers with theoretical references.

Effect of a microencapsulated blend of organic acids and bioactive compounds on the quality and visual appraisal of broiler meat

For 2160 broilers, were raised from 1 to 42 d of age, was evaluated the consequences of microencapsulated blend of organic acids and bioactive compounds on dietary supplementation in broilers on meat quality and consumer acceptance during 200 d. Broilers were randomly distributed in a completely randomized design with 6 treatments: Negative control (NC): basal diet; Positive control (PC): NC+ Zinc bacitracin 15%; B150: NC+150 g/t of the microencapsulated blend of organic acids and bioactive compounds; B300: NC+300 g/t of the microencapsulated blend of organic acids and bioactive compounds; B450:NC+450 g/t of the microencapsulated blend of organic acids and bioactive compounds; and B600:NC+600 g/t of the microencapsulated blend of organic acids and bioactive compounds. The poultry meat characteristics (thawing loss, cooking loss, shear force, color and microstructure of the meat), oxidative stability (lipid oxidation, antioxidant activity DPPH and ABTS) and consumer acceptance (visual appraisal and willingness to buy) were evaluated. Color parameters (L and b), thawing losses and shear force were not significantly different among the treatments (NC, PC, B150, B300, B450 and B600; P > 0.05). The highest level of a was in the PC. The cooking losses were the greatest in B600. No treatment showed changes in muscle fibers. The antioxidant activity for DPPH was higher for B600. For ABTS, B150 and B300 presented the least lipid oxidation. When evaluating consumers' visual preference, B300 had the greatest in consumer preference and B150 and B300 had the greatest purchase intention on the first day of storage. After 6 d, B300 continued to be the most preferred and B150 and B450 began to show the greatest purchase intention. The B300 treatment showed a protective effect on lipid stability and consumer preference. These results highlight the importance of using a precise additive dosage during animal production to guarantee the meat's quality and satisfy consumers' demands.

Advances in Grape Seed Oil Extraction Techniques and Their Applications in Food Products: A Comprehensive Review and Bibliometric Analysis

Global wine production has grown, resulting in an increase in waste within the industry. This has raised concerns among producers and scientists worldwide, prompting them to seek solutions for its management. The aim is to explore the latest advancements in using grape seed oil as a byproduct and its applications within the food industry. To achieve this, a bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Scopus database covering the period from 1990 to 2023. Additionally, a comprehensive literature review was conducted on extraction techniques, compositions, properties, and innovative applications in food. A bibliometric analysis revealed that interest in grape seed oil has grown over the past fifteen years. The majority of research on this grape byproduct is concentrated in Asian countries. Grape seed oil is a rich source of lipophilic compounds, including fatty acids, phytosterols, and vitamin E, which provide antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The literature indicates that only oil obtained through pressing is used in food products, such as meat products, dairy drinks, and chocolates, either directly or in emulsions. These findings suggest that further research and innovation are needed to explore how this waste can be used in new food sources, particularly in countries with high wine production.

Unveiling the emerging trends of egg components-based biodegradable food packaging development: A comprehensive review

Food packaging plays a crucial role in the food supply chain by aiding in food preservation and reducing food losses throughout the distribution process. The extensive, unregulated utilization, and waste mismanagement of food packaging materials made up of conventional petroleum-based plastics has led to a significant environmental crisis. Egg components-based food packaging has attracted considerable attention from the global packaging industry as a viable alternative to synthetic polymers due to its biodegradability, sustainability, and health-related benefits. This comprehensive review explores the composition and properties of egg components (eggshell, eggshell membrane, egg white, and egg yolk), and recent advancements in biodegradable packaging films derived from them. Additionally, it introduces the characteristics of these films and their applications in food, highlighting their biodegradability, sustainability, and suitable mechanical, barrier, thermal, optical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties as substitutes for traditional synthetic polymers. The utilization of various egg components in the packaging industry is a safe, non-toxic, cost-effective, and economical approach. However, it was found that incorporating active compounds from natural sources into packaging films, as well as composite films composed of egg components combined with other biopolymers, resulted in superior properties, compared to single component films. Moreover, the application of novel technologies in film development has proven to be more effective than conventional methods. These innovative egg components-based packaging films can be optimized and commercialized for use as packaging materials for food products.

Preserving plum perfection: Buckwheat starch edible coating with xanthan gum and lemongrass essential oil

The research focused on the fabrication of composite coatings using buckwheat starch (BS) and xanthan gum (XG) with incorporation of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) essential oil (LEO) with varying concentration (0.75 %, 1.0 % and 1.25 % (w/v). BS was extracted from buckwheat groats (Fagopyrum esculentum) and its physico-chemical characteristics were determined. BS showed spherical and polygonal morphology and its XRD pattern was similar to starch extracted from other cereal sources. The amount of reducing sugar, starch and amylose content in extracted BS were 0.99 ± 0.33 %, 86.32 ± 0.22 % and 21.02 ± 1.89 % respectively, which indicates that BS is a suitable base material for the formation of edible coatings. XG was mixed with BS in different ratios (1:1, 2:1, 3:1 and 4:1) to optimize the best ratio of combination for composite coatings. The coating with a ratio of 2:1 was very smooth and was chosen for incorporation of LEO and the coatings physical, functional, mechanical, thermal and micro-structural characteristics were examined. The coating S5 with 1.25 % (w/v) concentration of LEO showed the best results with least moisture content (MC), minimum water vapor permeability (WVP) and maximum contact angle value. Moreover, the S5 formulation had the highest antioxidant (73.3 %) ability and maximum antimicrobial efficiency with inhibition zones of 22.09 ± 0.06 mm and 28.65 ± 0.14 mm against S. aureus and E. coli respectively. The coatings were then coated on plum fruit, and various parameters like weight loss, pH, shrinkage and TSS were calculated every 4th day during the 20 days of refrigeration period. The coated plums' ripening pace was delayed by the S5 formulation which improved moisture retention, maintained the plums' TSS value and overall pH. Therefore, composite coatings made up of BS, XG and 1.25 % (w/v) can be used as a cost-effective bio-active coating material for plum preservation under refrigeration conditions.

Biopolymer-based packaging films/edible coatings functionalized with ε-polylysine: New options for food preservation

In light of the commendable advantages inherent in natural polymers such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and cost-effectiveness, researchers are actively engaged in the development of biopolymer-based biodegradable food packaging films (BFPF). However, a notable limitation is that most biopolymers lack intrinsic antimicrobial activity, thereby restricting their efficacy in food preservation. To address this challenge, various active substances with antibacterial properties have been explored as additives to BFPF. Among these, ε-polylysine has garnered significant attention in BFPF applications owing to its outstanding antibacterial properties. This study provides a brief overview of the synthesis method and chemical properties of ε-polylysine, and comprehensively examines its impact as an additive on the properties of BFPF derived from diverse biopolymers, including polysaccharides, proteins, aliphatic polyesters, etc. Furthermore, the practical applications of various BFPF functionalized with ε-polylysine in different food preservation scenarios are summarized. The findings underscore that ε-polylysine, functioning as an antibacterial agent, not only directly enhances the antimicrobial activity of BFPF but also serves as a cross-linking agent, interacting with biopolymer molecules to influence the physical and mechanical properties of BFPF, thereby enhancing their efficacy in food preservation.

Intrinsic properties and extrinsic factors of food matrix system affecting the effectiveness of essential oils in foods: a comprehensive review

Essential oils (EOs) have been proved as natural food preservatives because of their effective and wide-spectrum antimicrobial activity. They have been extensively explored for potential applications in food industry, and substantial progresses have been achieved. However well EOs perform in antibacterial tests in vitro, it has generally been found that a higher level of EOs is needed to achieve the same effect in foods. Nevertheless, this unsimilar effect has not been clearly quantified and elaborated, as well as the underlying mechanisms. This review highlights the influence of intrinsic properties (e.g., oils and fats, carbohydrates, proteins, pH, physical structure, water, and salt) and extrinsic factors (e.g., temperature, bacteria characteristics, and packaging in vacuum/gas/air) of food matrix systems on EOs action. Controversy findings and possible mechanism hypotheses are also systematically discussed. Furthermore, the organoleptic aspects of EOs in foods and promising strategies to address this hurdle are reviewed. Finally, some considerations about the EOs safety are presented, as well as the future trends and research prospects of EOs applications in foods. The present review aims to fill the evidenced gap, providing a comprehensive overview about the influence of the intrinsic and extrinsic factors of food matrix systems to efficiently orientate EOs applications.

Garlic bioactive substances and their therapeutic applications for improving human health: a comprehensive review

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a widely abundant spice, known for its aroma and pungent flavor. It contains several bioactive compounds and offers a wide range of health benefits to humans, including those pertaining to nutrition, physiology, and medicine. Therefore, garlic is considered as one of the most effective disease-preventive diets. Many in vitro and in vivo studies have reported the sulfur-containing compounds, allicin and ajoene, for their effective anticancer, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, immune-boosting, and cardioprotective properties. As a rich natural source of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, saponins, tannins, linalool, geraniol, phellandrene, β-phellandrene, ajoene, alliin, S-allyl-mercapto cysteine, and β-phellandrene, garlic has many therapeutic applications and may play a role in drug development against various human diseases. In the current review, garlic and its major bioactive components along with their biological function and mechanisms of action for their role in disease prevention and therapy are discussed.

Co-encapsulation of Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora) essential oil and nisin using caffeic acid grafted chitosan nanogel and the effect of this nanogel as a bio-preservative in Iranian white cheese

The current study aims to co-encapsulate Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora) essential oil (ZEO) and nisin into chitosan nanogel as an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent to enhance the shelf-life of cheese. Chitosan-caffeic acid (CS-CA) nanogel was produced to co-encapsulate Zataria multiflora essential oil and nisin. This nanogel was characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. The effect of free (TFZN) and encapsulated ZEO-nisin in chitosan nanogel (TCZN) on the chemical and microbiological properties of Iranian white cheese was assessed. The particle size, polydispersity index value (PDI), zeta potential, antioxidant activity, and encapsulation efficiency of the optimal chitosan-ZEO-nisin nanogel were 421.6 nm, 0.343, 34.0 mV, 71.06%-82.69%, and 41.3 ± 0.5%, 0.79 ± 0.06 mg/mL. respectively. FTIR and XRD approved ZEO and nisin entrapment within chitosan nanogel. The chitosan nanogel showed a highly porous surface with an irregular shape. The bioactive compounds of ZEO and nisin decreased the pH changes in cheese. On the 60th day of storage, the acidity of treated samples was significantly lower than that of control. Although the lowest anisidine index value was observed in samples treated with sodium nitrate (NaNO3) (TS), there was no significant difference between this sample and TCZN. The lowest microbial population was observed in TCZN and TS. After 60 days of ripening, Coliforms were not detected in the culture medium of TCZN and TS. The results can contribute to the development of a natural preservative with the potential for application in the dairy industry.

Emulsified and Nanoemulsified Essential Oils in the Control of Clostridium botulinum and Clostridium sporogenes in Mortadella

Clostridium botulinum is a foodborne pathogen responsible for severe neuroparalytic disease associated with the ingestion of pre-formed toxin in food, with processed meats and canned foods being the most affected. Control of this pathogen in meat products is carried out using the preservative sodium nitrite (NaNO2), which in food, under certain conditions, such as thermal processing and storage, can form carcinogenic compounds. Therefore, the objective was to use nanoemulsified essential oils (EOs) as natural antimicrobial agents, with the aim of reducing the dose of NaNO2 applied in mortadella. The antimicrobial activity of nanoemulsions prepared with mixtures of EOs of garlic, clove, pink pepper, and black pepper was evaluated on endospores and vegetative cells of C. botulinum and Clostridium sporogenes (surrogate model) inoculated in mortadella prepared with 50 parts per million NaNO2. The effects on the technological (pH, water activity, and color) and sensory characteristics of the product were also evaluated. The combinations of EOs and their nanoemulsions showed sporicidal effects on the endospores of both tested microorganisms, with no counts observed from the 10th day of analysis. Furthermore, bacteriostatic effects on the studied microorganisms were observed. Regarding the technological and sensorial characteristics of the product, the addition of the combined EOs had a negative impact on the color of the mortadella and on the flavor/aroma. Despite the strong commercial appeal of adding natural preservatives to foods, the effects on flavor and color must be considered. Given the importance of controlling C. botulinum in this type of product, as well as the reduction in the amount of NaNO2 used, this combination of EOs represents a promising antimicrobial alternative to this preservative, encouraging further research in this direction.

Antioxidant and antimicrobial effect of sodium alginate nanoemulsion coating enriched with oregano essential oil (Origanum vulgare L.) and Trachyspermum ammi oil (Carum cupticum) on food pathogenic bacteria

Today, microbial contamination in food is one of the major problems of the food industry and public health in general around the world. Foodborne illnesses, such as diarrheal diseases, kill many people around the world each year. The general objective of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant and antibacterial activity of sodium alginate nanoemulsion coating incorporated with oregano essential oil (Origanum vulgare L.) and Trachyspermum ammi oil (Carum cupticum) on Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes. To achieve this study, fresh chicken meat was used for this experiment. Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 19111 and Escherichia coli ATCC 35218 were obtained from the American Type Culture Collection (Manassas, VA, USA). After the preparation of the essential oil, the chemical composition of this essential oil was determined by using (GC-MS). The physicochemical properties of the nanoemulsion essential oil prepared were characterized and their antimicrobial activity was evaluated. The results showed that the GC-MS analysis of the volatile constituents of the Origanum vulgare essential oil compounds allowed the identification of 19 compounds representing 93.72% of the total oil. The major components detected in Origanum vulgare essential oil were pulegone (49.25%), eucalyptol (18.23%), and menthone (12.37%). About the Carum cupticum essential oil, 21 compounds representing 98.5% of the total oil were identified. The major components detected in Origanum vulgare essential oil were thymol (23.3%), p-cymene (17.5%), and γ-terpinene (16.8%). The best z-average (d.nm) is 483.4 nm (Carum cupticum essential oil + nano) followed by 470.1 nm (nanochitosan). The results of the antimicrobial test showed that the different preparations have a good inhibitory activity for the in vitro growth of Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes. According to the MIC and MBC results of this study, the nanoemulsion also presented a good bacteriostatic activity against the two pathogenic bacteria tested in this study.

Nanoemulsion-integrated gelatin/bacterial cellulose nanofibril-based multifunctional film: Fabrication, characterization, and application

The current requirements of food safety regulations and the environmental impact stemming from plastic packaging can only be addressed by developing suitable bio-nanocomposite films. Therefore, this study is dedicated to the fabrication of multifunctional film composed of gelatin, bacterial cellulose nanofibrils (BCNF), and black pepper essential oil nanoemulsion (BPEONE) and application for duck meat preservation. BCNF was prepared through ultrasonication of cellulose derived from Komagataeibacter xylinus. BPEONE observed spherical morphology with a diameter ranging from 83.7 to 118 nm. A film matrix containing a higher gelatin proportion than BCNF was more effective in trapping BPEONE. However, increasing the BPEONE fraction showed more surface abrasion and voids in the film morphology. A flexible film with good interaction, crystallinity, and greater thermal stability (421 °C) was developed. Nevertheless, film hydrophobicity (118.89°) declined, resulting in a notable effect on water solubility, swelling, and water vapor permeability. Moreover, the film had improved antibacterial and antioxidant activities, coupled with controlled release characteristics. Consequently, the developed film effectively retarded the lipid oxidation, inhibited microbial growth, and extended the shelf life of duck meat at refrigeration (4 °C) by 3 days, and made the film a promising alternative in the realm of bio-active packaging technology.

Development of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) protein isolate-gum Arabic conjugates via ultrasound-assisted wet heating for spice essential oils emulsification: Effects on water solubility, bioactivity, and sensory stimulation

Quinoa protein isolate-gum Arabic (QPI-GA) conjugates were developed by ultrasound-assisted wet heating to improve the water solubility and bioactivity of spice essential oils (EOs) in this study. The optimal conditions for QPI-GA conjugates preparation were found to be: heating temperature of 72 ℃, ultrasound power of 450 W, and reaction time of 46 min. QPI-GA conjugates displayed significantly higher emulsifying efficiency and stronger tolerance to pH variation, high salt concentration, and storage than raw materials. The emulsifying efficiency of emulsions was also influenced by the pH and viscosity of EOs, zeta potential of the emulsion as well as the relative density and lipid/water partition coefficient (P) of EOs were the possible factors impacting the stability of EO emulsions. The water solubility, antioxidant ability, and antibacterial ability of tested EOs were improved after emulsification. Meanwhile, encapsulation with QPI-GA conjugates played a good effect on reducing the sensory stimulation of EOs.

The Research Field of Meat Preservation: A Scientometric and Visualization Analysis Based on the Web of Science

Meat plays a significant role in human diets, providing a rich source of high-quality protein. With advancements in technology, research in the field of meat preservation has been undergoing dynamic evolution. To gain insights into the development of this discipline, the study conducted an analysis and knowledge structure mapping of 1672 papers related to meat preservation research within the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) spanning from 2001 to 2023. And using software tools such as VOSviewer 1.6.18 and CiteSpace 5.8.R3c allowed for the convenient analysis of the literature by strictly following the software operation manuals. Moreover, the knowledge structure of research in the field of meat preservation was synthesized within the framework of "basic research-technological application-integration of technology with fundamental research," aligning with the research content. Co-cited literature analysis indicated that meat preservation research could be further categorized into seven collections, as well as highlighting the prominent role of the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of plant essential oils in ongoing research. Subsequently, the future research direction and focus of the meat preservation field were predicted and prospected. The findings of this study could offer valuable assistance to researchers in swiftly comprehending the discipline's development and identifying prominent research areas, thus providing valuable guidance for shaping research topics.

Advances in efficient extraction of essential oils from spices and its application in food industry: A critical review

With the increase of people's awareness of food safety, it is crucial to find natural and green antimicrobial agents to replace traditional antimicrobial agents. Essential oils of spices (SEOs) are low toxicity or nontoxic, which exhibited antioxidants and antimicrobial activity according to many in vitro and in situ experiments. Spices are widely available and low cost as a plant raw material for the extraction of SEOs. This review summarized highly efficient extraction techniques for SEOs, such as physical field assisted extraction technology, supercritical fluid extraction, and biological-based techniques. Furthermore, purification of SEOs and components were also recapitulated. Purification techniques of SEOs improve their utilization value due to the increased content of bioactive components. Finally, the review concentrated on the applications of SEOs in food industry, including food preservation, food active packaging by means of films or coatings, antioxidant properties. In addition, addressing the problem of unstability of SEOs and its role to inhibit the pathogenic bacteria, the encapsulation of SEOs for use in the food industrial sectors reduces the safety risk to human health.

Recent Trends in Active Packaging Using Nanotechnology to Inhibit Oxidation and Microbiological Growth in Muscle Foods

Muscle foods are highly perishable products that require the use of additives to inhibit lipid and protein oxidation and/or the growth of spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. The reduction or replacement of additives used in the food industry is a current trend that requires the support of active-packaging technology to overcome novel challenges in muscle-food preservation. Several nano-sized active substances incorporated in the polymeric matrix of muscle-food packaging were discussed (nanocarriers and nanoparticles of essential oils, metal oxide, extracts, enzymes, bioactive peptides, surfactants, and bacteriophages). In addition, the extension of the shelf life and the inhibitory effects of oxidation and microbial growth obtained during storage were also extensively revised. The use of active packaging in muscle foods to inhibit oxidation and microbial growth is an alternative in the development of clean-label meat and meat products. Although the studies presented serve as a basis for future research, it is important to emphasize the importance of carrying out detailed studies of the possible migration of potentially toxic additives, incorporated in active packaging developed for muscle foods under different storage conditions.

A critical review on biodegradable food packaging for meat: Materials, sustainability, regulations, and perspectives in the EU

The development of biodegradable packaging is a challenge, as conventional plastics have many advantages in terms of high flexibility, transparency, low cost, strong mechanical characteristics, and high resistance to heat compared with most biodegradable plastics. The quality of biodegradable materials and the research needed for their improvement for meat packaging were critically evaluated in this study. In terms of sustainability, biodegradable packagings are more sustainable than conventional plastics; however, most of them contain unsustainable chemical additives. Cellulose showed a high potential for meat preservation due to high moisture control. Polyhydroxyalkanoates and polylactic acid (PLA) are renewable materials that have been recently introduced to the market, but their application in meat products is still limited. To be classified as an edible film, the mechanical properties and acceptable control over gas and moisture exchange need to be improved. PLA and cellulose-based films possess the advantage of protection against oxygen and water permeation; however, the addition of functional substances plays an important role in their effects on the foods. Furthermore, the use of packaging materials is increasing due to consumer demand for natural high-quality food packaging that serves functions such as extended shelf-life and contamination protection. To support the importance moving toward biodegradable packaging for meat, this review presented novel perspectives regarding ecological impacts, commercial status, and consumer perspectives. Those aspects are then evaluated with the specific consideration of regulations and perspective in the European Union (EU) for employing renewable and ecological meat packaging materials. This review also helps to highlight the situation regarding biodegradable food packaging for meat in the EU specifically.

Potential Impact of Combined Inhibition by Bacteriocins and Chemical Substances of Foodborne Pathogenic and Spoilage Bacteria: A Review

In recent years, food safety caused by foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria has become a major public health problem worldwide. Bacteriocins are a kind of antibacterial peptide synthesized by microbial ribosomes, and are widely used as food preservatives. However, when used individually bacteriocins may have limitations such as high cost of isolation and purification, narrow inhibitory spectrum, easy degradation by enzymes, and vulnerability to complex food environments. Numerous studies have demonstrated that co-treatment with bacteriocins and a variety of chemical substances can have synergistic antibacterial effects on spoilage microorganisms and foodborne pathogens, effectively prolonging the shelf life of food and ensuring food safety. Therefore, this paper systematically summarizes the synergistic bacteriostatic strategies of bacteriocins in combination with chemical substances such as essential oils, plant extracts, and organic acids. The impacts of bacteriocins when used individually and in combination with other chemical substances on different food substrates are clarified, and bacteriocin-chemical substance compositions that enhance antibacterial effectiveness and reduce the potential negative effects of chemical preservatives are highlighted and discussed. Combined treatments involving bacteriocins and different kinds of chemical substances are expected to be a promising new antibacterial method and to become widely used in both the food industry and biological medicine.

Consumer-oriented smart dynamic detection of fresh food quality: recent advances and future prospects

Since fresh foods include a significant amount of water, fat, and protein, it is more likely to become infected by microorganisms causing a major loss of quality. Traditional detection techniques are less able to meet customer expectations owing to the limitations of high cost, slow response time, and inability to permit dynamic monitoring. Intelligent non-destructive detection technologies have emerged in recent years, which offer the advantages of small size and fast response at low cost. However, dynamic monitoring of fresh food quality based on intelligent detection technologies on the consumer side has not been rigorously evaluated yet. This paper discussed the application of intelligent detection technologies based on the consumer side in the dynamic monitoring of fresh food freshness, microorganisms, food additives, and pesticide residues. Furthermore, the application of intelligent detection technologies combined with smartphones for quality monitoring and detection of fresh foods is evaluated. Moreover, the challenges and development trends of intelligent fresh food quality detection technologies are also discussed. Intelligent detection technologies based on the consumer side are designed to detect in real-time the quality of fresh food through visual color changes in combination with smartphones. This paper provides ideas and recommendations for the application of intelligent detection technologies based on the consumer side in food quality detection/monitoring and future research trends.

A novel infrared and microwave alternate thawing method for frozen pork: Effect on thawing rate and products quality

The effect of infrared and microwave alternate thawing (IR + MWT) on frozen pork were compared to fresh, air thawing (AT), infrared thawing (IRT), microwave thawing (MWT). The IR + MWT took only about 11.81 min of the thawing time compared to AT 66.5 min, and the Raman spectroscopy and Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) results showed that the IR + MWT maintained better protein secondary structure composition and moisture state compared to MWT and IRT. In terms of thawing losses, IR + MWT had the lowest loss 1.92%. In terms of texture, IR + MWT had the least effect on the post-thawing textural properties and increased the springiness of the meat. Scanning electron microscopy results also showed that there was reduced damage to the muscle structure with IR + MWT. Regarding the odor of the meat after thawing, IR + MWT retained the odor better and was closer to the fresh sample. Therefore, IR + MWT can be used to enhance the thawing rate to protect the quality of the thawed pork.

Application of oleaster leaves (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.) essential oil and natural nanoparticle preservatives in frankfurter-type sausages: An assessment of quality attributes and stability during refrigerated storage

The effects of oleaster leave essential oil (OLEOs: 1000 and 2000 ppm) in combination with nisin nanoparticles (200 ppm) and ε-polylysine nanoparticles (2000 ppm) on the physicochemical, microbiological and sensory properties of the emulsion-type sausages without added chemical nitrite/nitrate salts were evaluated during 45 days of storage. Nanoparticle attributes were assessed, including encapsulation efficiency (EE%), zeta potential, nanoparticles size, FTIR analysis, and thermal stability (DSC). Overall, ε-PL nanoparticles (ε-PL-NPs) were thermally more stable and showed higher EE% (91.52%) and zeta potential (37.80%) as compared to nisin nanoparticles (82.85%) and (33.60%), respectively. The use of combined ε-PL-NPs (2000 ppm) + Ni-NPs (200 ppm) with oleaster leaves essential oil (2000 ppm) resulted in a higher pH value (5.88), total phenolic content (10.45 mg/100 g) and lower TBARS (2.11 mg/kg), and also decreased total viable bacteria (1.28 Log CFU/g), Clostridium perfringens (1.43 Log CFU/g), E. coli (0.24 Log CFU/g), Staphylococcus aureus (0.63 Log CFU/g), and molds and yeasts (0.86 Log CFU/g) count in samples at day 45 in comparison to the control (120 ppm nitrite). The consumers approved sensory traits in nitrite-free formulated sausages containing ε-PL-NPs and Ni-NPs combined with OLEOs.

Effect of gelatin and acacia gum on anthocyanin coacervated microcapsules using double emulsion and its characterization

The present study was aimed to develop a stable microencapsulated anthocyanin from black rice bran using double emulsion complex coacervation technique. Nine microcapsule formulations were prepared using gelatin, acacia gum and anthocyanin at ratios of 1:1:0.5, 1:1:0.75 and 1:1:1 respectively. The concentration of gelatin and acacia gum used were 2.5, 5 and 7.5 % w/v. Subsequently, the coacervated microcapsules were obtained at different pH (3, 3.5 and 4), freeze-dried and evaluated for their physicochemical properties, morphology, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD), thermal behaviour and stability of anthocyanin. The results obtained for encapsulation efficiency of anthocyanin with high values (72.70 to 83.65 %) indicated that the encapsulation process was effective. The morphology of the microcapsule powder was analysed and exhibited round, hard, agglomerated structures and relatively smooth surface. The thermal degradation behaviour of microcapsules displayed endothermic reaction confirming the thermostability of the microcapsules where the peak ranged from 83.7 to 97.6 °C. The stability studies in terms of retention of total anthocyanin content were observed at different storage conditions; both under refrigerated condition (7 °C) and at room temperature (37 °C). The results indicated that the microcapsules obtained through coacervation can be an alternative source to develop stable nutraceuticals.

Basic sensory properties of essential oils from aromatic plants and their applications: a critical review

With higher standards in terms of diet and leisure enjoyment, spices and essential oils of aromatic plants (APEOs) are no longer confined to the food industry. The essential oils (EOs) produced from them are the active ingredients that contribute to different flavors. The multiple odor sensory properties and their taste characteristics of APEOs are responsible for their widespread use. The research on the flavor of APEOs is an evolving process attracting the attention among scientists in the past decades. For APEOs, which are used for a long time in the catering and leisure industries, it is necessary to analyze the components associated with the aromas and the tastes. It is important to identify the volatile components and assure quality of APEOs in order to expand their application. It is worth celebrating the different means by which the loss of flavor of APEOs can be retarded in practice. Unfortunately, relatively little research has been done on the structure and flavor mechanisms of APEOs. This also points the way to future research on APEOs.Therefore, this paper reviews the principles of flavor, identification of components and sensory pathways in humans for APEOs. Moreover, the article outlines the means of increasing the efficiency of using of APEOs. Finally, with respect to the sensory applications of APEOs, the review focuses on the practical application of APEOs in food sector and in aromatherapy.

Nanoemulsion-based approach to preserve muscle food: A review with current knowledge

Muscle foods are regarded as nutritionally dense foods while they are prone to spoilage by action of microorganism and oxidation. Recently, the consumer's preference is mostly toward minimally processed foods as well as preserved with natural preservatives. However, natural extract directly to the food matrix has several drawbacks. Hence development and applications of nanoemulsion has gained importance for the preservation of muscle foods to meet consumer requirements with enhanced food safety. Nanoemulsion utilizes natural extracts at much lower concentration with higher preservative abilities over original components. Nanoemulsions offer protection to the active component from degradation and ensure longer bioavailability. Novel techniques used for formulation of nanoemulsion provide stability to the emulsion with desirable qualities to improve their impacts. The application of nanoemulsion is known to enhance the preservative action of nanoemulsions by improving the microbial safety and oxidative stability in nanoform. This review provides recent updates on different methods used for formulation of nanoemulsions from different sources. Besides, successful application of nanoemulsion derived using natural agents for muscle food preservation and shelf life extension are reviewed. Thus, the application of nanoemulsion to extend shelf life and maintain quality is suggested for muscle foods.

Evaluation of vegetable sauerkraut quality during storage based on convolution neural network

Vegetable sauerkraut is a traditional fermented food. Due to oxidation reactions that occur during storage, the quality and flavor in different periods will change. In this study, the quality evaluation and flavor characteristics of 13 groups of vegetable sauerkraut samples with different storage time were analyzed by using physical and chemical parameters combined with electronic nose. Photographs of samples of various periods were collected, and a convolutional neural network (CNN) framework was established. The relationship between total phenol oxidative decomposition and flavor compounds was linearly negatively correlated. The vegetable sauerkraut during storage can be divided into three categories (full acceptance period, acceptance period and unacceptance period) by principal component analysis and Fisher discriminant analysis. The CNN parameters were fine-tuned based on the classification results, and its output results can reflect the quality changes and flavor characteristics of the samples, and have better fitting, prediction capabilities. After 50 epochs of the model, the accuracy of three sets of data namely training set, validation set and test set recorded 94%, 85% and 93%, respectively. In addition, the accuracy of CNN in identifying different quality sauerkraut was 95.30%. It is proved that the convolutional neural network has excellent performance in predicting the quality of Szechuan Sauerkraut with high reliability.

Effect of Nanoemulsion Containing Enterocin GR17 and Cinnamaldehyde on Microbiological, Physicochemical and Sensory Properties and Shelf Life of Liquid-Smoked Salmon Fillets

The spoilage of liquid-smoked salmon represented a serious restriction for shelf life, due to the loss of taste, smell, color and consistency in product quality. The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of applying a nanoemulsion delivery system co-encapsulated enterocin Gr17 and essential oils (EOs) to the refrigerated storage of liquid-smoked salmon. The synergistic inhibiting effects of enterocin Gr17 and EOs were evaluated, a nanoemulsion delivery system with the optimal combination was developed, and the evolution of the microbiological, physicochemical, and sensory properties of liquid-smoked salmon fillets were analyzed during a 49-day period of refrigerated storage. The results showed that the combination of enterocin Gr17 and cinnamaldehyde essential oil (CEO) displayed the strongest synergistic inhibiting effect on foodborne pathogens. A nanoemulsion system incorporating enterocin Gr17 and CEO was successfully developed and presented a broad spectrum of activity against most of the tested bacteria. A nanoemulsion system incorporating enterocin Gr17 and CEO (CO-NE) could significantly inhibit the growth of microflora, suppress the accumulation of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), and maintain better color, texture, and sensory profiles during smoked salmon storage at 4 °C. Overall, from a microbiological, physicochemical, and sensory point of view, the CO-NE treatment could extend the shelf life to 42 days and maintain the relatively low TVB-N value (≤15.38 mg/100 g), TBARS value (≤2.51 mg MDA/kg), as well as a relatively high sensory score (≥5.83) during the whole storage period. Hence, a nanoemulsion system incorporating enterocin Gr17 and CEO could be a promising bio-preservative technology and alternative to the conventional processes used for improving the safety and quality of chilled liquid-smoked salmon.

Edible films/coatings containing bioactive ingredients with micro/nano encapsulation: A comprehensive review of their fabrications, formulas, multifunctionality and applications in food packaging

Due to the consumer's pursuit of safe, nontoxic and nutritious foods, edible and/or biodegradable materials have stood out in food packaging and preservation. In this context, the preparation and application of micro/nano encapsulated active ingredients (M/N-E-BAIs) represent a step toward reinforcing the properties of sustainable and controllable food packaging, particularly for the successful incorporation of new substances and functionalities into traditional edible films/coatings. This review, from the preparation of M/N-E-BAIs, the fabrication of edible film/coating containing M/N-E-BAIs to their characterization of multifunction and the application in food, makes a systematic summary and in-depth discussion. Food-grade polymers can encapsulate bioactive ingredients (BAIs) by chemical, physicochemical and mechanical methods, thereby forming M/N-E-BAIs with suitable sustained-release and unique biological activities. Furthermore, M/N-E-BAIs is incorporated into biopolymer substrates by solvent casting, 3D printing or electrostatic spinning to obtain novel edible films/coatings. This advanced packaging material exhibits superior physicochemical and functional properties over traditional food films/coatings. Besides, their applications in foods as active and intelligent packaging can improve food quality, prolong shelf life and monitor food corruption. Even so, there are still many challenges and limitations in formulation, preparation and application of this new packaging technology that need to be addressed in the future.

Antimicrobial Active Packaging Containing Nisin for Preservation of Products of Animal Origin: An Overview

The preservation of food represents one of the greatest challenges in the food industry. Active packaging materials are obtained through the incorporation of antimicrobial and/or antioxidant compounds in order to improve their functionality. Further, these materials are used for food packaging applications for shelf-life extension and fulfilling consumer demands for minimal processed foods with great quality and safety. The incorporation of antimicrobial peptides, such as nisin, has been studied lately, with a great interest applied to the food industry. Antimicrobials can be incorporated in various matrices such as nanofibers, nanoemulsions, nanoliposomes, or nanoparticles, which are further used for packaging. Despite the widespread application of nisin as an antimicrobial by directly incorporating it into various foods, the use of nisin by incorporating it into food packaging materials is researched at a much smaller scale. The researchers in this field are still in full development, being specific to the type of product studied. The purpose of this study was to present recent results obtained as a result of using nisin as an antimicrobial agent in food packaging materials, with a focus on applications on products of animal origin. The findings showed that nisin incorporated in packaging materials led to a significant reduction in the bacterial load (the total viable count or inoculated strains), maintained product attributes (physical, chemical, and sensorial), and prolonged their shelf-life.

Inhibition of nitrite in prepared dish of Brassica chinensis L. during storage via non-extractable phenols in hawthorn pomace: A comparison of different extraction methods

The objective of this study was to investigate whether non-extractable phenols (NEP) prepared by acid, enzymatic and alkaline hydrolysis in hawthorn pomace could reduce the nitrite content in prepared vegetable dishes (PVDs), analyzed through ultraviolet spectrophotometry and high performance liquid chromatography. The results showed that on the seventh day of storage, compared with the control group, the nitrite content of the samples added with acid, enzymatic and alkaline hydrolyzed NEP decreased by 40%, 28% and 19%, respectively, depending on different contents and chemical compositions of the recovered NEP. The nitrite reduction caused by NEP was mainly attributed to the growth inhibition of microorganisms producing nitrite (e.g., Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and the direct scavenging effect on nitrite, rather than affecting the activities of nitrate reductases and nitrite reductases in plant tissues. Use of hawthorn pomace is potentially a promising option to reduce nitrite in PVDs.

Advances in prepared dish processing using efficient physical fields: A review

Prepared dishes are increasingly popular convenience food that can be eaten directly from hygienic packaging by heating. Physics field (PF) is food processing method built with physical processing technology, which has the characteristics of high efficiency and environmental safety. This review focuses on summarizing the application of PFs in prepared dishes, evaluating and comparing PFs through quality changes during processing and storage of prepared dishes. Currently, improving the quality and extending the shelf life of prepared dishes through thermal and non-thermal processing are the main modes of action of PFs. Most PFs show good potential in handing prepared dishes, but may also react poorly to some prepared dishes. In addition, the difficulty of precise control of processing conditions has led to research mostly at the laboratory stage, but as physical technology continues to break through, more PFs and multi-physical field will be promoted for commercial use in the future. This review contributes to a deeper understanding of the effect of PFs on prepared dishes, and provides theoretical reference and practical basis for future processing research in the development of various enhanced PFs.

Synergistic antibacterial mechanism of different essential oils and their effect on quality attributes of ready-to-eat pakchoi (Brassica campestris L. ssp. chinensis)

The mixture of garlic essential oil (GEO), ginger essential oil (GIEO) and litsea cubeba essential oil (LCEO) was prepared and its effect on the antibacterial activity of E. coli, S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, as well as properties of ready-to-eat pakchoi during storage were assessed. GEO, GIEO or LCEO treatment significantly enhanced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, resulting in disruption of the permeability of cell membrane, the leakage of cytoplasmic contents, and the alteration of the secondary structure of bacterial proteins. Meanwhile, GEO, GIEO or LCEO treatment repressed the key enzyme in tricarboxylic acid (TCA) and Hexose monophosphate pathway (HMP) cycle of E. coli, S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. Essential oil treatments (p < 0.05) could significantly prolong the shelf life of pakchoi, total bacterial count (TBC) values and chlorophyll content of GEO/GIEO/LCEO sample were 3.47 log cfu/g and 0.82 mg/g, respectively, after storage for 7 days. E. coli, S. aureus and P. aeruginosa counts in GEO/GIEO/LCEO samples decreased by 56.76 %, 70.10 %, 73.95 % compared to CK (no essential oil) samples. The comprehensive results from the sensory (flavor and color) and microbial analysis (especially TBC) showed that GEO/GIEO/LCEO could extend the shelf life of ready-to-eat pakchoi from 4 d to 7 d. As compared with GEO, GIEO or LCEO individually, the combination of GEO, GIEO and LCEO exhibited synergistic effect and more pronouncedly antibacterial activity to improve quality of ready-to-eat pakchoi.

Recent advances in essential oil complex coacervation by efficient physical field technology: A review of enhancing efficient and quality attributes

Although complex coacervation could improve the water solubility, thermal stability, bioavailability, antioxidant activity and antibacterial activity of essential oils (EOs). However, some wall materials (such as proteins and polysaccharides) with water solubility and hydrophobic nature limited their application in complex coacervation. In order to improve the properties of EO complex coacervates, some efficient physical field technology was proposed. This paper summarizes the application and functional properties of EOs in complex coacervates, formation and controlled-release mechanism, as well as functions of EO complex coacervates. In particular, efficient physical field technology as innovative technology, such as high pressure, ultrasound, cold plasma, pulsed electric fields, electrohydrodynamic atomization and microwave technology improved efficient and quality attributes of EO complex coacervates are reviewed. The physical fields could modify the gelling, structural, textural, emulsifying, rheological properties, solubility of wall material (proteins and polysaccharides), which improve the properties of EO complex coacervates. Overall, EOs complex coacervates possess great potential to be used in the food industry, including high bioavailability, excellent antioxidant capacity and gut microbiota in vivo, masking the sensation of off-taste or flavor, favorable antimicrobial capacity.