Biodegradable biocomposite films based on whey protein and zein: barrier, mechanical properties and AFM analysis

Int J Biol Macromol. 2008 Aug 15;43(2):209-15. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2008.05.006. Epub 2008 May 28.

Abstract

Whey and zein protein are byproducts of the food industries and have good film making properties. Single and laminated films were produced from zein protein and whey protein and their film properties were studied. Glycerol and olive oil were used as plasticizer for the single and laminated films. The laminated films exhibited higher ultimate tensile strength (UTS) than the single whey protein films (260% and 200% in the whey-zein-glycerol and whey-zein-olive oil films, respectively). The UTS of the whey protein films increased 2-3-fold after lamination. The laminated films showed higher barrier properties than the single whey protein films (180% in the whey protein-zein-glycerol films and 200% in the whey protein-zein-olive oil films in comparison to single whey protein films) and lower than the single zein films.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Food Packaging / instrumentation*
  • Glycerol
  • Materials Testing
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force
  • Milk Proteins / chemistry*
  • Olive Oil
  • Plant Oils
  • Whey Proteins
  • Zein / chemistry*

Substances

  • Milk Proteins
  • Olive Oil
  • Plant Oils
  • Whey Proteins
  • Zein
  • Glycerol