Development of Biodegradable Packaging Films Loaded with Bioactives from Different Macrophytes

Abstract

newline The escalating global crisis of plastic pollution necessitates innovative approaches to address environmental challenges. The issue is particularly more prominent in developing nations, where inadequate waste management exacerbates the problem. Concurrently, the excessive growth of macrophytes in aquatic ecosystems resulting from eutrophication phenomena is also a challenge for concerned management authorities. In this context, the study addresses these challenges by proposing an innovative approach, the development of biodegradable packaging materials using aquatic macrophytes. These aquatic plants, rich in proteins and starch, offer a sustainable alternative to a reasonable extent to conventional plastics, addressing both environmental degradation and waste management efficiencies. The research explores the feasibility of incorporating bioactive compounds from macrophytes into protein-based films, enhancing their functionality with antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-cancerous properties. newlineThe first objective involves the comprehensive extraction and screening of macrophyte extracts using RP-HPLC/LC-MS analysis. Selected macrophytes viz., Azolla cristata, Nymphaea mexicana, Trapa natans, Nelumbo nucifera and Ceratophyllum demersum were collected from the Dal lake and methanolic extract of the macrophytes was prepared using Soxhlet apparatus. The extract was analysed using Orbitrap-High Resolution-Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometery (O-HR-LCMS), revealing compounds including phenols (such as Quercetin, Kaempferol, Luteolin, Gallic acid, Caffeic acid, p-Coumaric acid, Ferulic acid, Rutin, Chlorogenic acid, Tricin 5-O-and#946;-D-glucoside, Myricetin etc.), flavonoids (such as Trifolin, Astragalin, Quercetin-3and#946;-D-glucoside etc.), alkaloids (such as Arecoline, Tropine etc.), terpenes (such as Betulin, Torularhodin, Taxifolin, Abietic acid, and Albiflorin-3 etc.), fatty acids (such as Stearic acid, (R)-3-Hydroxy myristic acid, Oleic acid etc.) and organic acids. These findings underscore the potential of m