Linear low‐density polyethylene modified with d‐limonene/β‐cyclodextrin inclusion complex: Antimicrobial composite for active food packaging

Abstract Linear low‐density polyethylene (PE) containing an inclusion complex composed of β‐cyclodextrin and d ‐limonene (CD‐lim) is proposed as an innovative food wrapping material with antimicrobial features. PE/CD‐lim composites are prepared by conventional, high‐volume processing, and the optical and mechanical properties of the developed formulations appear suitable for their use as food packaging materials. Compared to plain PE, the PE/CD‐lim films have improved haze and UV–vis outcomes, but also decreased gloss values. Addition of CD‐lim slightly increases water uptake, up to levels suitable for the foreseen application. It also allows to improve performance of PE as food packaging material, since the PE/CD‐lim composites provide barrier to ultraviolet light, an added value for packaging of fatty acids‐containing food items, whose shelf life is often limited by oxidation caused by UV light. Most importantly, PE/CD‐lim composites exhibit significant antimicrobial properties against a wide range of microorganisms, including fungi and bacteria. Hence, PE films containing CD‐lim display suitable properties to play a role as active food packaging films. Highlights Development of polyethylene‐based composites containing a natural filler Composite films with enhanced antimicrobial and antifungal efficiency Improved transparency to visible light and barrier to UV of the composites