Work

pH-responsive imine-chitosan-based intelligent controlled-release packaging films with transformable antimicrobial modes from defense to attack

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Antimicrobial active packing has demonstrated great potential in extending food shelf life. However, developing new intelligent and responsive antimicrobial strategies is still desirable. Here, a 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde (HMB)-decorated chitosan film (HDCF) via surface Schiff-base coupling is designed. HDCF shows excellent storage stability and pH-responsive release, enabling a switch in antimicrobial mode from “defense” to “attack” under acid conditions. Before HMB release, HDCF exhibits broad spectrum antifungal adhesion capabilities against Penicillium citrinum , Penicillium chrysogenum and Aspergillus niger , and antibacterial adhesion capabilities against Staphylococcus aureus . Under acidic conditions, with HMB release, HDCF displays enhanced release-antifungal performance against A. niger , P. citrinum and Candida albicans and release-antibacterial performance against S. aureus . In addition, HDCF is effective in food preservation for cherry tomatoes and tomato juice and has good UV barrier properties. Therefore, this HDCF provides a new path for diversiform antimicrobial designs in the new generation of food packaging.

Source: Food Chemistry X

DOI: 10.1016/j.fochx.2025.103087