Biodegradable active films developed from low-methoxyl pectin incorporated with cellulose nanocrystals-stabilized oregano essential oil Pickering emulsions.

The development of biodegradable active packaging plays a vital role in reducing plastic pollution and improving food safety. In this study, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were employed to stabilize oregano essential oil (OEO) Pickering emulsions (COPEs), which were then incorporated into glycerol as a plasticizer and calcium ion-crosslinked low-methoxyl pectin (LMP) to prepare degradable active films - COPE-LMP. We investigated the modification effects and compatibility of the COPEs within the LMP matrix via varying the proportions of CNCs and OEO. As the proportion of OEO increased, the surface structure of COPE-LMP films became uniform, devoid of micropores or cavities. This observation indicated effective cross-linking structures and good compatibility with the film matrix throughout the film-forming process. The ultraviolet-blocking properties, antioxidant capacity, and effectiveness against common pathogenic and spoilage bacteria in food of COPE-LMP films were significantly increased with the increased proportion of OEO in Pickering emulsions. In addition, the COPE-LMP films exhibited excellent mechanical and biodegradable properties. This study presents a novel perspective on the modification of LMP-based films and the development of biodegradable active packaging.