Research Symposium

BIO

I am an undergraduate student at Florida State University majoring in Biological Science. I have a passion for creating innovations that could contribute to the betterment of society. Through concepts in biology and mechanical engineering, I hope to develop an innovation that will improve the quality and functionality of daily activities.

Developing Plant-Based Edible Films for Food Packaging

Abstract

Background: Plastic packaging has been damaging to the environment and the planet’s ecosystems for a
long time. Creating a sustainable and biodegradable material with comparable properties to plastic would
be groundbreaking in the materials industry and greatly reduce harm by plastic production to the
environment. Aim: To Develop a sustainable material with comparable properties to current for food
packaging. Methods: A film was prepared using pea protein isolate that was glycated with pullulan. The
effects of the Maillard Reaction on film properties were measured as well for the properties themselves to
determine the practicality of film compared to current packaging. Results: As the Maillard reaction
proceeded, the film experienced several improvements in properties such as color, film texture, tensile
strength, elongation, absorbance, water content and water vapor permeability. Conclusion: The film that
underwent the Millard reaction demonstrated improved properties compared to the control film and may
serve as a possible opportunity for producing an environmentally friendly packaging material.

Keywords: PPI, Pea Protein, Maillard Reaction, materials science