Apple-Based Biodegradable Film Packaging: A Zero-Waste Solution

Conventional packaging, often reliant on synthetic preservatives and non-biodegradable materials, is incompatible with the EU’s Green Deal and Farm to Fork Strategy, which promote a reduced dependence on chemically based components for single-use plastics. As a result, there is a growing need for eco-friendly packaging alternatives that preserve fresh produce while minimizing their environmental impact. Sustainable packaging, particularly bio-based and biodegradable materials, presents a promising solution by reducing waste and enhancing food preservation. In line with zero-waste principles, food industry by-products, such as dried apple by-products, can be repurposed into innovative packaging materials. Combined with natural polymers like pectin, these by-products can create functional absorbent pads that reduce moisture and prevent spoilage in strawberries. The present study aimed to develop a biodegradable packaging film based on apple by-products to be applied as a controller of strawberry degradation. Apple by-products (30% w/v) were incorporated into a pectin matrix (5% w/v) with sorbitol, forming the primary components of the films. The films were evaluated for microbiological stability, water solubility, water absorption, colour properties, and biodegradability in soil. A response surface methodology was employed to optimize the production conditions of the films, varying the pectin concentrations (0.5% to 5%), by-product content (5% to 30%), and solid-to-area ratios (0.33 to 0.132 g/cm²). The results demonstrated that the pectin concentration and by-product content significantly influenced the films' water absorption capacity and microbiological stability. Over a 38-day period, the films exhibited biodegradation rates ranging from 62.3% to 98.51%. More than 50% of the material disintegrated during the assay period, highlighting the rapid and environmentally safe degradation potential of these pads. The use of agrifood by-products aligns with zero-waste policies and promotes sustainable consumption, providing an eco-friendly solution for extending the shelf-life of fresh fruits.