Nano-clays from natural and modified montmorillonite with and without added blueberry extract for active and intelligent food nanopackaging materials

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of nano-clays as active and intelligent (A&I) food nanopackaging materials. Nanopackaging is a structured system that allows the storage of certain compounds in a stable form. Nano-clays were prepared from natural and modified montmorillonite (Mnt) with and without added blueberry extract, and characterized in terms of their: X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, thermogravimetric (TGA) properties, microstructure, moisture content, water activity (aw), infrared spectra (FTIR), Raman spectra, color parameters, response to pH changes, and antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Mnt prepared with added blueberry extract showed antioxidant activity and intelligent behavior under different pH conditions. Modifying the Mnt increased the interlayer spacing, thus allowing more blueberry extract to be incorporated within the system. In conclusion, natural and modified Mnt are eco-friendly resources with potential applications for nano-packaging. The addition of blueberry extract imparted intelligent properties to the nano-clays as regards their responses to changes in pH.