Filmes comestíveis produzidos com farinha de casca de banana madura, amido de milho e extrato das folhas de Eriobotrya japonica lindl..

Abstract

The valorization of agro-industrial waste and the development of biodegradable materials have gained prominence as alternatives to the improper disposal of waste and the use of synthetic materials. This study aimed to develop edible films based on ripe banana peel flour (Musa spp.) and corn starch, incorporating different concentrations of extracts from the leaves of Eriobotrya japonica Lindl., and to evaluate their physicochemical, bioactive, and functional properties. The films were produced using the solvent casting technique, and their characteristics were investigated through structural, thermal, mechanical, and microbiological analyses. The films developed from banana peel flour exhibited tensile strength ranging from 1.09 MPa (FSE - film without extract) to 1.65 MPa (FSE24 - film with 24% extract), demonstrating the formation of a cohesive and stable matrix. Elongation at break rates ranged from 17.02% to 30.94%, indicating high flexibility, a key feature for biodegradable packaging applications. Although the extracts of Eriobotrya japonica conferred significant antioxidant properties to the films, antimicrobial potential was not observed, as only the crude extract exhibited specific activity against Candida albicans, suggesting that antimicrobial bioactivity was not effectively incorporated into the films at the tested concentrations. The developed formulations presented mechanical properties aligned with the criteria established by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), such as mechanical strength, elasticity, moisture barrier, and food safety. Among them, FSE stood out for its tensile strength and elasticity, while FE 12 demonstrated functional balance and high antioxidant capacity, reinforcing its bioactive value. The FE 2 formulation showed good performance in mechanical strength and food safety, with high levels of Copper (97.22 mg/100g) and Zinc (38.77 mg/100g), minerals with bioactive and metabolic properties. Although FE 24 presented lower mechanical performance due to the dilution of active components, it maintained its biodegradable potential, reinforcing its sustainable applicability. The analysis of total phenolic compounds (TPC) revealed a proportional increase with the concentration of Eriobotrya japonica extract, indicating higher antioxidant capacity in formulations containing the extract. Regarding mineral composition, the FSE formulation showed the highest levels of Potassium (5386.91 mg/100g) and Calcium (322.96 mg/100g), while FE 12 was notable for significant levels of Magnesium (13.36 mg/100g) and Iron (8.96 mg/100g), further reinforcing its biofunctional potential. These characteristics demonstrate that the formulations are viable for the development of edible and biodegradable packaging that meets the demands of the food industry. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using agro-food residues and natural bioactive compounds in the formulation of innovative and sustainable materials. The results obtained highlight the potential of these materials to promote environmentally responsible and functional technologies, aligned with the demands of the circular economy and environmental preservation.