Multifunctional composite films by incorporating carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals stabilized p-coumaric acid pickering emulsion for cherry tomato preservation.

Bioactive films effectively prevent the quality deterioration of fruits during storage and transportation. In this study, multifunctional konjac glucomannan/methylcellulose (KGM/MC)-based films were developed by incorporating p-coumaric acid Pickering emulsion (p-CA PE) stabilized with carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals. The results indicated that the incorporation of PE promoted the uniform loading of hydrophobic p-CA within the KGM/MC-based network and exhibited good compatibility through hydrogen bonding interactions. p-CA PE films (PEF) exhibited excellent mechanical properties, hydrophobicity (WCA of 82.62°), UV/visible light barrier properties and antioxidant activity. The low hemolysis rate and high cell viability demonstrated the film biosafety. The application of PEF coating maintained quality of cherry tomatoes and activated key enzymes of the phenylpropanoid pathway. Importantly, fruits with PEF coatings defensed the growth of Botrytis cinerea during storage. Therefore, the multifunctional films coating successfully demonstrated the potential for maintaining fruit freshness and preventing spoilage during supply chain.