Use of PLA/PBAT stretch-cling film as an ecofriendly alternative for individual wrapping of broccoli heads

Broccoli heads are typically packaged and marketed in petroleum-based heat-shrinkable or stretch-cling films that are not biodegradables. These types of films are not compatible with global strategies to reduce plastics waste. One of these strategies is development of biodegradable packaging materials that can be used as an alternative food package. Therefore, a biodegradable stretch-cling film, based on poly(butylene-adipate-co-terephthalate) and poly(lactide) blend (Nature Fresh®), for its application in broccoli head packaging has been studied. To determine suitability of Nature Fresh® film for broccoli packaging, broccoli heads were wrapped in this film and stored at 2°C for 35 d. Broccolis without packaging and wrapped in linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) were used as controls. Physicochemical and sensory evaluation were determined during storage to study the effect of films on quality and shelf life of broccoli. On the one hand, broccolis packaged in Nature Fresh® and LLDPE presented similar evolution in internal atmosphere composition, color, hydroxycinnamic acids and carotenoids content and overall appearance. On the other hand, weight loss and decrease in firmness were significantly higher in broccoli wrapped in Nature Fresh® compared to LLDPE, but this had no impact on overall appearance. Nature Fresh® extended postharvest storage of broccoli heads at least 21 d at 2ºC, which is an adequate time to market. In conclusion, Nature Fresh® film was a viable packaging alternative to LLDPE to preserve broccoli quality during postharvest storage, while fulfilling global strategies to reduce plastics waste.