Fabrication and characterization of probioticLactobacillus plantarumloaded sodium alginate edible films

Abstract

In this study, sodium alginate (SA) based probioticLactobacillus plantarumcarrier edible films were fabricated and characterized for survival of probiotics, physicochemical, mechanical, barrier, molecular and thermal properties. Probiotic bacteria adapted well to the polymer matrix, which was indicated by the high survival rate during film drying and the storage for 60 days. Probiotic population remained at higher levels in the case of cold storage. Free or encapsulated bacteria incorporation significantly (P < 0.05) increased tensile strength values while no significant (P > 0.05) difference between elongation at break levels was observed. Water vapor permeability values significantly increased by the addition of encapsulated probiotics, probably due to the hydrophilic character of the wall material (maltodextrin). DSC thermograms showed that water evaporation peaks were at 121-130 degrees C while no glassy transition or melting behavior was observed at the SA based films. In conclusion, the results indicated that SA was confirmed as a potent carrier ofLactobacillus plantarumand SA based probiotic films could be conveniently used as edible coating of foods.