Next-Generation Chitosan packaging incorporating turmeric oil and Tetracycline for extended shelf life and microbial resistance.

Growing environmental concerns over conventional plastic packaging have sparked increased interest in biodegradable alternatives that offer active functional properties. In this study, a chitosan-based packaging film was developed using the solvent casting method and functionalized with turmeric oil and tetracycline hydrochloride to enhance its antimicrobial performance. The film was evaluated for antibacterial and antifungal activity using the agar well diffusion method, showing inhibition zones of 3.1 cm against Escherichia coli, 3.0 cm against S aureus, and 1.2 cm against Aspergillus niger for the 10 wt% tetracycline formulation. In vitro drug release studies indicated a controlled release profile, with turmeric oil achieving up to 26% cumulative release and tetracycline up to 5.8%. The film exhibited improved mechanical strength (tensile strength up to 68 MPa), low water vapor permeability (2.26 × 10-8 g·m/Pa·s·m2), and high biodegradability (88.4% weight loss in 35 days). These findings highlight its promise as an eco-friendly, antimicrobial packaging material.