Preparation of dual-functional packaging films containing green tea essential oil microcapsules for strawberry preservation: Excellent barrier properties and antioxidant activity

In this study, gelatin (GEL)/chitosan (CS)/green tea essential oil microcapsule (GTOM) films were prepared by casting to investigate their physicochemical properties and effectiveness in preserving fresh strawberries. GTOM at a maximum content of 30% (based on the total solid mass of GEL-CS) was also well dispersed in the CS and GEL matrix. The results showed that the incorporation of GTOM imparted excellent blocking properties of the films against UV–visible light (transparency and opacity at 600 nm of 35.47% and 7.47, respectively), decent mechanical properties (tensile strength up to 11.08 MPa), good antioxidant properties (60% scavenging activity against DPPH) and satisfactory safety (96.94%). After 7 d of storage at 25 °C, packed strawberries showed the water loss of GTOM-3 compared to polystyrene preservative films (PPF) was reduced to 31.2%, and the hardness was maintained at 3.01 N, showing excellent freshness retention and effectively reducing the loss of nutritional value of strawberries. In addition, the film exhibited good hydrophobicity and inherent biocompatibility, and these results indicate the remarkable potential of the new film for application, making it a promising high-performance preservation material.