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Abstract The inevitable drawbacks of petrochemical polymer‐based packaging (e.g., extreme loss of fossil resources, excessive products’ carbon footprint, and inordinate environmental pollution resulting from the accumulation of disposed nonbiodegradable plastic‐based packages) have urged scientists to develop novel packaging materials from nature‐inspired biopolymers. Due to their biodegradability, non‐toxicity, film‐forming ability, and barrier properties versus gasses/aroma, polysaccharides have been increasingly valued in developing food packaging materials at the lab or industrial scale. Nonetheless, these valuable biopolymers also suffer from some inherent deficiencies, that is, low resistance to water and poor mechanical attributes. Hitherto, tackling such bottlenecks via the modification of biopolymers through chemical/physical approaches and applying a combination of several biopolymers has been the main focus of numerous recent studies. In this context, the present article, for the first time, provides a comprehensive update on the most recent utilization of common polysaccharides (e.g., starch, chitosan, xanthan gum, gum Arabic, alginate, gellan, pectin, and carrageenan) for food packaging applications.

Pomace, a waste product, generates a huge problem in the fruit and vegetable industry. Numerous studies prove that pomace and fibre are valuable sources of many nutrients. Due to their properties, their popularity is growing in many industries. Water vapour isotherms and kinetics were determined for selected fruit fibre and pomace. The activity and water content, colour, apparent and bulk density, and material structure were also investigated. In addition, the thermal stability of the tested fibres and pomace was examined. Fibre and pomace from chokeberries, apples and currants were used in the research. The determined kinetic curves proved that apple fibre absorbed more water vapour. The isotherms were found to have a shape characteristic of type III sorption isotherms. The Guggenheim–Anderson–de Boer model (GAB) described experimental data for sorption isotherms well (taking an RMS value of less than 10% as a good fit of the model to the sorption data). Thermogravimetric analysis showed good thermal stability, and all analysed fruit fibre and pomace showed similar behaviour in the three main stages of weight loss. The results suggest that the analysed waste materials can be used for different applications, including flour replacements for food products or filling materials in edible packaging films.

The aim of this study was to analyze the selected physical properties of vegetable bars coated with a coating based on pork gelatin (8% or 12%) with (25% or 50%) or without vegetable broth. The scope of work included developing the composition of edible coatings; preparing bars and coating freeze-dried vegetable bars; analyzing the water activity, dry matter content, the structure of vegetable bars based on microscopic analysis, and porosity; and then conducting a comparative analysis of the obtained results. The analyses show that the composition of the coating and the coating method influence the structure and selected physical properties of freeze-dried bars. Coating freeze-dried vegetable bars increases their water activity to the range of 0.215–0.389, and reduces their dry matter content to 93–96%. The porosity of the samples decreased (85–91%), but the use of coatings in the form of an edible film was more beneficial than immersing the dried material in a film-forming solution. The addition of vegetable broth to edible films improves the physical properties of the dried fruit and may additionally increase the taste of vegetable bars.

Edible hydrogel coatings or films in comparison to conventional food packaging materials are characterized as thin layers obtained from biopolymers that can be applied or enveloped onto the surface of food products. The use of lipid-containing hydrogel packaging materials, primarily as edible protective coatings for food applications, is recognized for their excellent barrier capacity against water vapor during storage. With the high brittleness of waxes and the oxidation of different fats or oils, highly stable agents are desirable. Jojoba oil obtained from the jojoba shrub is an ester of long-chain fatty acids and monovalent, long-chain alcohols, which contains natural oxidants α, β, and δ tocopherols; therefore, it is resistant to oxidation and shows high thermal stability. The production of hydrogel films and coatings involves solvent evaporation, which may occur in ambient or controlled drying conditions. The study aimed to determine the effect of drying conditions (temperature from 20 to 70 °C and relative humidity from 30 to 70%) and jojoba oil addition at the concentrations of 0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0% on the selected physical properties of hydrogel edible films based on whey protein isolate. Homogenization resulted in stable, film-forming emulsions with bimodal lipid droplet distribution and a particle size close to 3 and 45 µm. When higher drying temperatures were used, the drying time was much shorter (minimum 2 h for temperature of 70 °C and relative humidity of 30%) and a more compact structure, lower water content (12.00–13.68%), and better mechanical resistance (3.48–3.93 MPa) of hydrogel whey protein films were observed. The optimal conditions for drying hydrogel whey protein films are a temperature of 50 °C and an air humidity of 30% over 3 h. Increasing the content of jojoba oil caused noticeable color changes (total color difference increased from 2.00 to 2.43 at 20 °C and from 2.58 to 3.04 at 70 °C), improved mechanical elasticity (the highest at 60 °C from 48.4 to 101.1%), and reduced water vapor permeability (the highest at 70 °C from 9.00·10−10 to 6.35·10−10 g/m·s·Pa) of the analyzed films. The observations of scanning electron micrographs showed the heterogeneity of the film surface and irregular distribution of lipid droplets in the film matrix.

This work aimed to develop gluten-free snacks such as crispbread based on beetroot pomace (Beta vulgaris L.) and golden linseed (Lini semen). Beetroot is attracting more and more consumer attention because of its nutritional and health properties. The use of beet pomace contributes to waste management. Linseed, known as a superfood with many health-promoting properties, was used to produce crispbreads as an alternative to cereals, which are allergens. Beetroot pomace and whole or ground linseed were used in different proportions to produce crispbread snacks. Chemical and physical analyses were performed including water activity, dry matter, betalains, and polyphenols content, as well as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). A sensory evaluation and microstructure observations were also performed. The obtained snacks were characterized by low water activity (0.290–0.395) and a high dry matter content (93.43–97.53%), which ensures their microbiological stability and enables longer storage. Beetroot pomace provided betalains—red (14.59–51.44 mg betanin/100 g d.m.) and yellow dyes (50.02–171.12 mg betanin/100 g d.m.)—while using linseed enriched the product with polyphenols (730–948 mg chlorogenic acid/100 g d.m.). FTIR analysis showed the presence of functional groups such as the following: -OH, -C-O, -COOH, and -NH. The most desired overall consumer acceptability was achieved for snacks containing 50% beetroot pomace and 50% linseed seeds. The obtained results confirmed that beetroot pomace combined with linseed can be used in the production of vegetable crispbread snacks.

Crispbread is gaining popularity as a healthy snack or bread substitute. This is a lightweight dry type of flat food that stays fresh for a very long time due to its lack of water and usually contains different types of grain flour, including gluten-containing wheat or rye flour. The incorporation of legume purée into crispbread represents an innovative approach to enhancing the nutritional profile and taste of the product. The rheological properties of various legume purées (chickpea, white bean, black bean, and red bean) mixed with citrus pectin were examined, revealing significant differences in fluid behavior and viscosity. Crispbread formulations were analyzed for water content and activity, color, structure, FT-IR spectra, water vapor adsorption isotherms, and sensory evaluation. The results showed the possibility of obtaining crispbread based on the purée of legumes and citrus pectin. Crispbread enriched with red bean purée exhibited low water activity (0.156) and water content (3.16%), along with a continuous porous structure, and received the highest sensory evaluation score among the products. These findings can be treated as a basis for the development of other innovative recipes and combinations using legumes.

The aim of this work was to develop edible films derived from gelatin and beef broth and to analyze the physical properties of the output products. The presented research is important from the point of view of searching for food packaging solutions that may replace traditionally used plastic packaging. This study’s conceptual framework is in line with the trend of sustainable development and zero waste. This study was conducted to develop a recipe for edible films derived from beef gelatin with gelatin concentrations at 4%, 8%, and 12% enriched with additions of beef broth in amounts of 25, 50, 75, and 100%. Selected physical properties of the output edible films were examined in terms of thickness, swelling in water, opacity, water content, water solubility, structure, and mechanical properties. The conducted research made it plausible to conclude that the addition of broth has a positive effect on the extensibility of the edible films and the other physical properties under consideration, especially on decreasing the film thickness, which was found to vary between 50.2 and 191.6 µm. When gelatin and broth were added at low concentrations, the tensile strength of the films increased, and subsequently decreased; however, an opposite effect was observed for elongation at break. The increased broth concentration caused the film opacity to increase from 0.39 to 4.54 A/mm and from 0.18 to 1.04 A/mm with gelatin concentrations of 4% and 12%, respectively. The water solubility of the gelatin films decreased as a result of the broth addition. However, it was noticed that increasing the content of broth caused the water solubility to increase in the tested films. The mere presence of broth in the gelatin films changed the microstructure of the films and also made them thinner.

To optimize the functional properties of edible films or coatings, mixtures of several ingredients are used, including food processing by-products. In this way, pectin from fruit pomace, whey proteins from whey as a by-product of rennet cheese production, and gelatin from by-products of the processing of slaughtered animals can be obtained. The aim and scope of the investigation were to verify the hypothesis of the research, which assumes that the addition of beef broth to edible gelatin films will affect the gelation processes of the tested film-forming solutions and will allow for the modification of the edible properties of the films obtained based on these solutions. Measurements were carried out to determine the visual parameters, mechanical strengths, surface and cross-sectional structures, FTIR spectra, thermal degradation rates, and hydrophilicities of the prepared gelatin films. The water content, water vapor permeability, and course of water vapor sorption isotherms of the films were also examined, as well as the course of the gelation process for film-forming solutions. The addition of broth to film-forming solutions was found to increase their opacity and color saturation, especially for the ones that were yellow. The films with the addition of broth were more uneven on the surface and more resistant to stretching, and in the case of the selected types of gelatins, they also formed a more stable gel. The broth increased the hydrophilicity and permeability of the water vapor and reduced the water content of the films. The addition of broth enables the practical use of edible films, but it is necessary to modify some features.

Several consumable substances, including fruit and vegetable purees, extracts, juices, and plant residue, were analyzed for their matrix-forming potential. These matrices serve as the basis for the production of edible films, sheets, and coatings that can be eaten as nutritional treats or applied to food products, thereby contributing to their overall good quality. Furthermore, this innovative approach also contributes to optimizing the performance of synthetic packaging, ultimately reducing reliance on synthetic polymers in various applications. This article explores the viability of incorporating fruits and vegetables as basic ingredients within edible films, sheets, and coatings. The utilization of fruits and vegetables in this manner becomes achievable due to the existence of polysaccharides and proteins that facilitate the formation of matrices in their makeup. Moreover, including bioactive substances like vitamins and polyphenols can impart attributes akin to active materials, such as antioxidants or antimicrobial agents. Advancing the creation of edible films, sheets, and coatings derived from fruits and vegetables holds great potential for merging the barrier and mechanical attributes of biopolymers with the nutritional and sensory qualities inherent in these natural components. These edible films made from fruits and vegetables could potentially serve as alternatives to seaweed in sushi production or even replace conventional bread, pancakes, tortillas, and lavash in the diet of people suffering from celiac disease or gluten allergy, while fruit and vegetable coatings may be used in fresh and processed food products, especially fruits and vegetables but also sweets.

Highly methylated apple pectin (HMAP) and pork gelatin (PGEL) have been proposed as gelling agents for pumpkin purée-based films. Therefore, this research aimed to develop and evaluate the physiochemical properties of composite vegetable films. Granulometric analysis of film-forming solutions showed a bimodal particle size distribution, with two peaks near 25 µm and close to 100 µm in the volume distribution. The diameter D4.3, which is very sensitive to the presence of large particles, was only about 80 µm. Taking into account the possibility of creating a polymer matrix from pumpkin purée, its chemical characteristic was determined. The content of water-soluble pectin was about 0.2 g/100 g fresh mass, starch at the level of 5.5 g/100 g fresh mass, and protein at the level of about 1.4 g/100 g fresh mass. Glucose, fructose, and sucrose, the content of which ranged from about 1 to 1.4 g/100 g fresh mass, were responsible for the plasticizing effect of the purée. All of the tested composite films, based on selected hydrocolloids with the addition of pumpkin purée, were characterized by good mechanical strength, and the obtained parameters ranged from about 7 to over 10 MPa. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis determined that the gelatin melting point ranged from over 57 to about 67 °C, depending on the hydrocolloid concentration. The modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC) analysis results exhibited remarkably low glass transition temperature (Tg) values, ranging from −34.6 to −46.5 °C. These materials are not in a glassy state at room temperature (~25 °C). It was shown that the character of the pure components affected the phenomenon of water diffusion in the tested films, depending on the humidity of the surrounding environment. Gelatin-based films were more sensitive to water vapor than pectin ones, resulting in higher water uptake over time. The nature of the changes in water content as a function of its activity indicates that composite gelatin films, with the addition of pumpkin purée, are characterized by a greater ability to adsorb moisture from the surrounding environment compared to pectin films. In addition, it was observed that the nature of the changes in water vapor adsorption in the case of protein films is different in the first hours of adsorption than in the case of pectin films, and changes significantly after 10 h of the film staying in an environment with relative humidity RH = 75.3%. The obtained results showed that pumpkin purée is a valuable plant material, which can form continuous films with the addition of gelling agents; however, practical application as edible sheets or wraps for food products needs to be preceded with additional research on its stability and interactions between films and food ingredients.

The work aimed to investigate the rheological properties and the gelling process of selected film-forming solutions obtained based on hydrocolloids, such as sodium alginate, highly methylated pectin, and soy protein isolate with the addition of pumpkin purée. It was found that both concentration of hydrocolloid and the addition of pumpkin purée affected the rheological parameters. The non-linear nature of the flow curves was demonstrated, which allowed the curves to be described using the Ostwald de Waele model. The addition of pumpkin purée and the concentration of the structure-forming substance affected the apparent viscosity of the composite film-forming solutions. Considering the applied parameters, only the gelation temperature of composite gelatin film-forming solutions with the addition of pumpkin purée was possible to determine. Additionally, degassing of the solutions with the addition of pumpkin purée resulted in the reduction of the aeration degree and smoothening of the edible films’ surface.

The main research objective of the work was to demonstrate that the low-temperature sous-vide method allows obtaining a culinary product with selected physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory properties that are more favorable compared to the corresponding features of the product obtained by conventional methods used in closed-type mass catering establishments, with the example of chicken breast. In addition, the aim was to demonstrate higher storage stability of culinary samples of chicken breast prepared by the sous-vide technique compared to samples prepared by conventional methods. The results confirm that the sous-vide method allows obtaining a product with the expected physical and chemical properties, comparable or even better with samples obtained by heat treatment methods, provided that high-quality raw materials and a high level of hygiene in the production process are used. Implementation of the innovative sous-vide method allows for extending the gastronomic offer of closed-type mass catering establishments with microbiologically safe dishes, desirable in sensory evaluation and stable during storage, which also allows for reducing the loss of prepared meals.

The study investigated the effect of a combination of drying techniques: convection, microwave, and freeze-drying, on selected physical properties of the dried material (carrot) to determine which form of hybrid drying is the best alternative to traditional freeze-drying. Carrots were dried by freeze-drying, convection-drying, and microwave-drying as well as in hybrid methods: freeze-drying-convection, freeze-drying–microwave as well as convection–freeze-drying or microwave–freeze-drying. The color, porosity, shrinkage, water activity, dry matter content, and internal structure of carrots dried using various methods were examined. The dried samples obtained with the hybrid method were compared with those obtained with a single drying technique. Freeze-drying–microwave-drying (F-M) as an alternative drying method for freeze-drying allowed us to obtain dried material with a water activity similar (p < 0.05) to that of freeze-dried samples, at the same time reducing the duration of the process by 20 h. The combination of convection-drying methods with freeze-drying (K-F) and microwave-drying with freeze-drying (M-F) allowed us to obtain dried material with lower shrinkage than in the case of convection (K) or microwave (M) drying.

In this paper, the effect of whey-protein-isolate-based edible coatings with the addition of jojoba oil at concentrations of 1 and 2% on the qualitative characteristics of fresh-cut root parsley was evaluated. Changes in hardness, color parameters, and the contents of polyphenols and flavonoids over 28 days of refrigerated storage, as well as changes in structure, were examined. It was observed that fresh-cut parsley, uncoated and coated with a protein solution, was characterized by a decrease in hardness, from 59.32 and 59.88 to 50.98 and 48.33 N, respectively, while parsley coated with whey protein isolate with the addition of jojoba oil showed an increase in hardness during storage, from 56.28 to 66.23 N and from 52.17 to 60.49 for 1% and 2% of jojoba-oil-containing formulations, respectively. The L*, a*, and b* color parameters and hue angle mostly remained at similar levels, which indicate the maintenance of the desired color, but changes in the values were observed during storage. Parameter L* was between 79.56 and 85.33 in the control samples and between 72.54 and 84.19 in the coated samples. It was shown that the use of whey protein coatings and storage time had a positive impact on the contents of polyphenols and flavonoids in the fresh-cut parsley. The highest changes in polyphenols, from 3.13 to 9.82 mg GAE/g d.m., were observed for the samples coated with the formulation containing 1% of jojoba oil. The highest increase in flavonoid content, from 23.65 to 40.60 mg QE/g d.m., was observed for the samples coated with the film-forming solution with 2% of jojoba oil. Scanning electron microscopy showed a smaller number of pores in the vegetable tissue as a result of the coatings, and this was the most noticeable for the samples without the jojoba oil. Storage deteriorated the quality of the fresh-cut parsley surface, and the drying effect was visible. The use of protein coatings incorporated with jojoba oil modifies the quality characteristics of fresh-cut parsley, and this can find application in reducing the waste of minimally processed vegetables during storage.

Active pullulan films with the addition of 3, 5 or 10% propolis extract produced by the casting method were tested in the study. Propolis extracts from Bochnia County, Siedlce County and Ełk County (Poland) were used. The appearance of the films was characterized, as well as physical parameters (thickness, moisture content, water solubility), tensile strength (TS), elongation at break (EB), optical characteristics (light transparency, UV barrier, color) and antifungal properties. The antifungal activity of the films was tested by the disc diffusion method against yeast (Candida albicans, C. krusei, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa) and mold (Alternaria solani, Fusarium solani, Rhizopus stolonifer, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, C. cladosporioides, Aspergillus niger, A. ochraceus, Mucor mucedo, Penicillium expansum, P. chrysogenum). The origin of propolis influenced the color and water solubility of the films. The addition of increasing concentrations of propolis extract increased the film thickness and the intensity of the yellow color, extended the water dissolution time of the film and reduced the values of TS and EB. The addition of propolis extract in the pullulan film improved UV radiation protection but decreased light transparency. The antifungal activity increased significantly with the increasing concentration of propolis extract in the film, regardless of the origin of propolis. Molds showed greater sensitivity to pullulan films containing propolis extract than yeasts. In general, films made of pullulan with the addition of propolis extract can be considered as natural active packaging to protect against the growth of fungi in food.

Nowadays, the popularity of snack foods is increasing due to the fast-paced lifestyle of society. Thanks to the prevailing trends related to a healthy lifestyle and organic food, the need to create new products is increasing, but also more and more attention is being paid to high nutritional value. The aim of the study has been to evaluate the energy, nutritional, and health-promoting value of freeze-dried vegetable-based products with hydrocolloids as structure forming additives. The research included mathematical estimation of the energy and nutrients content, as well as selected health-promoting components, such as vitamins and micro- and macro-nutrients. The calculation was based on tabular data of the nutritional values each components of the products. In addition, the quality of the bars has been assessed by means of the daily requirement and the nutritional quality index. The bars have proven to be characterized by high energy and nutritional and health-promoting value. The Index Nutritional Quality (INQ) indicator has shown that the tested products are incorrectly adjusted in terms of the content of nutrients in relation to the energy supplied. The broccoli bar has turned out to be the best option because it has the highest content of protein, fat, and all the relevant vitamins and minerals. Obtained results verified that tested snacks were not enough to cover daily intake of specific nutrients, but introducing such products to balanced diet may have beneficial influence on human health and well-being.

The aim of the work has been to develop freeze-dried fruit snacks in the form of bars with the use of by-products derived from fruit processing. In effect 14 product designs of fruit gels based on: apple pulp, apple juice, water, sodium alginate and only apple or only chokeberry pomace were prepared. The snacks were freeze-dried. The dry matter content, water activity, structure, colour, mechanical properties, as well as organoleptic evaluation were determined. Freeze-dried bares were obtained according to sustainability production which in this case was relied on application of fruit pomace. The freeze-drying process ensures the microbiological safety of the product without the need to use chemical preservatives. Freeze-dried samples obtained low water activity in the range of 0.099–0.159. The increase in pomace concentration (3–9%) boosted the dry matter content to above 98%, and decreased the brightness of the freeze-dried bars about 6 to 10 units. Mechanical properties varied depending on the product design. With the increase in the amount of pomace, the shear force increased at 23% to 41%. Based on the results, the best variant, that has the most delicate structure and the best organoleptic properties, has proven to contain 1% sodium alginate and 2% pomace.

Changes in the rheological properties of dough, as well as the microstructural, mechanical, and sensory properties of sponge cakes, as a function of the substitution of sucrose in a formulation with maltitol, erythritol, and trehalose are described. Moreover, the relationship between the examined properties was investigated. The replacement of sucrose with maltitol or trehalose did not affect the consistency index, whereas erythritol caused a decrease in its value. X-ray tomography was used to obtain the 2D and 3D microstructures of sponge cakes. All studied sweeteners caused the sponge cakes to have a typical porous structure. Erythritol and maltitol resulted in about 50% of the pores being smaller than 0.019 mm2 and 50% of the pores being larger than 0.032 mm2. Trehalose resulted in a homogeneous microstructure, 98% of whose pores were similar in size (0.019 to 0.032 mm2). The sponge cakes with polyols had a higher structure index than did the trehalose and sucrose samples. There were also significant differences in color parameters (lightness and chromaticity). The crust of the sponge cake with sweeteners was lighter and had a less saturated color than the crust of the sponge cake with sucrose. The sponge cake with maltitol was the most similar to the sponge cake with sucrose, mainly due to the mechanical and sensory properties. Trehalose led to the samples having high adhesiveness, which may limit its application as a sucrose substitute in sponge cake. Sensory properties were strongly correlated to cohesiveness, adhesiveness, and springiness and did not correlate to the 2D and 3D microstructures. It was found that 100% replacement of sucrose allows for a porous structure to be obtained. These results confirm that it is not the structure, but most of all the flavor, that determines the sensory perception of the sponge cakes.

The polyphenol content of tea depends on the growing region, harvest date, the production process used, and the brewing parameters. In this study, research was undertaken that included an analysis of the influence of the brewing process parameters on the content of total polyphenols (Folin-Ciocalteu), epigallocatechin gallate (HPLC), and antioxidant activity (against DPPH radicals) of fresh tea shrub leaves grown from Taiwan and of teas obtained from them (oolong, green in bags, and green loose from the spring and autumn harvest). The antioxidant potential was determined in the methanol and aqueous extracts, as well as in infusions that were obtained by using water at 65 or 100 °C and infusing the tea for 5 or 10 min. The highest content of total polyphenols and epigallocatechin gallate was found in green tea extracts from the spring harvest. However, in the case of infusions, the highest content of these compounds was found in green tea in bags. Steaming at 100 °C for 10 min, turned out to be the most favourable condition for the extraction. Oolong tea, brewed at 100 °C for 5 min was characterised by the highest antioxidant activity against stable DPPH radicals.

The possibility of using oilseed flours as a waste source for film-forming materials with a combination of soy protein isolate in preparation of edible films was evaluated. Physical, mechanical and barrier properties were determined as a function of the oilseed type: hemp, evening primrose, flax, pumpkin, sesame and sunflower. It was observed that the addition of oilseed flours increased the refraction and thus the opacity of the obtained films from 1.27 to 9.57 A mm−1. Depending on the type of flours used, the edible films took on various colors. Lightness (L*) was lowest for the evening primrose film (L* = 34.91) and highest for the soy protein film (L* = 91.84). Parameter a* was lowest for the sunflower film (a* = −5.13) and highest for the flax film (a* = 13.62). Edible films made of pumpkin seed flour had the highest value of the b* color parameter (b* = 34.40), while films made of evening primrose flour had the lowest value (b* = 1.35). All analyzed films had relatively low mechanical resistance, with tensile strength from 0.60 to 3.09 MPa. Films made of flour containing the highest amount of protein, pumpkin and sesame, had the highest water vapor permeability, 2.41 and 2.70 × 10−9 g·m−1 s−1 Pa−1, respectively. All the edible films obtained had high water swelling values from 131.10 to 362.16%, and the microstructure of the films changed after adding the flour, from homogeneous and smooth to rough. All blended soy protein isolate–oilseed flour films showed lower thermal stability which was better observed at the first and second stages of thermogravimetric analysis when degradation occurred at lower temperatures. The oilseed flours blended with soy protein isolate show the possibility of using them in the development of biodegradable films which can find practical application in the food industry.

The aim of this study was to find the effect of kale and dietary fibre (DF) on the physicochemical properties, nutritional value and sensory quality of multigrain bars. A recipe of multigrain bars was prepared with the addition of fresh kale (20% and 30%) and DF preparations (apple, blackcurrant, chokeberry and hibiscus). The bars were baked at 180 °C for 20 min. These snack bars, based on pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flaxseed and wholegrain oatmeal, are a high-calorie product (302–367 kcal/100 g). However, the composition of the bars encourages consumption. In addition to the ability to quickly satisfy hunger, such bars are rich in many natural ingredients that are considered pro-health (high fibre content (9.1–11.6 g/100 g), protein (11.2–14.3 g/100 g), fat (17.0–21.1 g/100 g, including unsaturated fatty acids), carbohydrates (20.5–24.0 g/100 g), as well as vitamins, minerals and a large number of substances from the antioxidant group. The addition of kale caused a significant increase of water content, but reduction in the value of all texture parameters (TPA profiles) as well as calorific values. The content of polyphenols was strongly and positively correlated with the antioxidant activity (r = 0.92). In the bars with 30% addition of kale (422 mg GA/100 g d.m.), the content of polyphenols was significantly higher than based ones (334 mg GA/100 g d.m.). Bars with the addition of the DF were characterized by a higher antioxidant activity, and the content of carotenoids, chlorophyll A and B and polyphenols. High sensory quality was demonstrated for all (from 4.8 to 7.1 on a 10-point scale). The addition of fibre preparations was also related to technological aspects and allows to create attractive bars without additional chemicals.

This paper presents the influence of blanching, ultrasonic processing and freezing conditions on selected physical properties of freeze-dried red beet, i.e., water activity, structure, porosity and shrinkage. Red beets subjected to a selected pre-treatment using its various parameters were frozen by three methods and then freeze-dried. Ultrasound reduced the water activity of samples. Blanching in water reduced shrinkage and improved porosity. In addition to the type of pre-treatment applied, the quality was also affected by freezing conditions before drying. Combined freezing resulted in the highest shrinkage and the lowest porosity and water activity. Slowly frozen samples were characterized by the best porosity.

The visible trend in the development of the snack market focuses on the use of innovative technologies such as low-temperature or hybrid processes that allow the preservation of native ingredients of raw plant materials. In addition, the high antioxidant potential of, for example, chokeberry fruit can be used to support technological processes and create new products. The aim of the study was to evaluate the possibility of using chokeberry juice concentrate as a component of an osmotic solution to enrich apple samples with natural bio-ingredients and obtain dried apples with increased content of ingredients with antioxidant properties; pro-healthy apple chips. The research material consisted of apples that underwent osmotic dehydration in solutions of sucrose or sucrose and chokeberry juice concentrate and then were dried by the freeze-drying or the hybrid method. The freeze-drying was more beneficial for maintaining the vitamin C content, while the use of the hybrid method resulted in the preservation of more polyphenolic compounds. The sensory evaluation indicated the need to modify the composition of the osmoactive solution. Due to the use of chokeberry juice concentrate, the content of vitamin C, polyphenols, and the antioxidant activity of dried apples was increased.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of candelilla (CAN) or carnauba wax (CAR) incorporation on functional properties of edible sodium caseinate (CAS) films. Glycerol and Tween-80 were used as the plasticizer and the emulsifier, respectively. The results showed that the incorporation of waxes increased film opacity, total color differences (∆E), and mechanical resistance and reduced film lightness, water vapor permeability (WVP), and elongation at break. Scanning electron microscopy showed heterogeneous structure of emulsion films with regular distribution of lipid particles. A different internal arrangement was observed as a function of the film composition with both layered and incorporated film structure. Films containing candelilla wax exhibited more regular lipid reorganization, which resulted in better water vapor barrier efficacy and mechanical resistance in comparison to control films. The presence of Tween-80 resulted in better dispersion of lipid particles in film-forming solutions and lower water solubility, lightness, film opacity, and water vapor permeability, whereas the total color differences (∆E) were significantly larger and the improvement in mechanical properties was also achieved.

The objective of this work is to study the effect of the rapeseed oil content on the physical properties of whey protein emulsion films. For this purpose, whey protein films with the addition of 0, 1, 2 and 3 % of rapeseed oil, and glycerol as a plasticizer were obtained by the casting method. Film-forming emulsions were evaluated and compared using light scattering granulometry. The Sauter mean diameters (d32) of lipid droplets in film-forming solutions showed an increasing trend when increasing the oil volume fractions. The inclusion of rapeseed oil enhanced the hydrophobic character of whey protein films, reducing moisture content and film solubility in water. All emulsified films showed high lightness (L*≈90). Parameter a* decreased and parameter b* and total colour difference (ΔE) increased with the increase of the volume fractions of oil. These results were consistent with visual observations; control films were transparent and those containing oil opaque. Water vapour sorption experimental data at the full range of water activity values from 0.11 to 0.93 were well described with Peleg’s equation (R2≥0.99). The tensile strength, Young’s modulus and elongation at break increased with the increase of rapeseed oil volume fraction, which could be explained by interactions between lipids and the protein matrix. These results revealed that rapeseed oil has enormous potential to be incorporated into whey protein to make edible film or coating for some food products. The mechanical resistance decreased with the addition of the lipids, and the opacity and soluble matter content increased.

Japanese quince has high health value, but due to its taste and texture, it is difficult to eat raw. The use of innovative drying methods to produce dried snack foods from these fruits may be of interest to producers and consumers. The physicochemical and sensory properties of 3 mm slices of Japanese quince fruit (with skin, without seeds) obtained by osmotic pre-treatment in chokeberry and apple juice concentrates, and with the use of convection (convective drying, C-D), freeze-drying (F-D), and convection-microwave-vacuum drying (hybrid) are assessed. The methods of drying osmo-dehydrated slices do not affect the dry matter content. In most dried quince, the water activity is 0.40 or lower. Pre-osmotic dehydration and drying have a significant impact on the mechanical and acoustic properties of quince chips. Sensory attractive chips emit loud acoustic emission (AE) during the breaking test. Chips that are osmo-dehydrated in a mixture of chokeberry juice concentrate and sucrose and dried by a hybrid method are attractive. They have a dark red color given by chokeberry concentrate and a slight sweet (with a slight sour-bitter) taste. The sensory evaluation was useful for determining the quality of the chips in terms of their texture (crispness) tested by mechanical methods. Their sensory ratings (overall desirability as weight of color, taste, crispness, and flavor) are high and similar (from 3.8 to 4.1). The use of innovative drying methods with pre-osmotic treatment allows obtaining dried material with properties comparable to those obtained by the F-D method, but in a much shorter time, i.e., with lower energy and using a simple method.

Packaging is an integral part of food products, allowing the preservation of their quality. It plays an important role, protecting the packed product from external conditions, maintaining food quality, and improving properties of the packaged food during storage. Nevertheless, commonly used packaging based on synthetic non-biodegradable polymers causes serious environmental pollution. Consequently, numerous recent studies have focused on the development of biodegradable packaging materials based on biopolymers. In addition, biopolymers may be classified as active packaging materials, since they have the ability to carry different active substances. This review presents the latest updates on the use of silver nanoparticles in packaging materials based on biopolymers. Silver nanoparticles have become an interesting component of biodegradable biopolymers, mainly due to their antimicrobial properties that allow the development of active food packaging materials to prolong the shelf life of food products. Furthermore, incorporation of silver nanoparticles into biopolymers may lead to the development of materials with improved physical-mechanical properties.

The influence of oxidized starch on the physicochemical properties of cast soy protein isolate films is determined in this study. Films were cast from heated (70 °C for 20 min) alkaline (pH=10) aqueous solutions of 7 % soy protein isolate containing 50 % (by mass) glycerol as a plasticizer and different levels of added oxidized starch (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 %, by mass). For all types of films, opacity, contact angle, tensile strength, elongation at break, water vapour permeability, measured at 25 °C for four relative humidity differentials (30–53, 30–75, 30–84 and 30–100 %), differential scanning calorimetry and microstructure were determined after conditioning film specimens at 25 °C and 30 % relative humidity for 48 h. Oxidized starch content significantly affected (p

The water vapour sorption kinetics and isotherms of pectin films prepared by the casting method were determined. The measurement of water vapour sorption kinetics was conducted using a saturated sodium chloride solution to obtain constant relative humidity of the environment (75.3%). The measurement was carried out at the temperature of 25°C over a 24 h period. The water vapour adsorption rate was the highest in the first hours of the process. The exponential equation fitted well the experimental data of water vapour adsorption with time. Glycerol concentration in the analysed films affected the increasing water vapour adsorption. The water vapour sorption isotherms were analysed using the saturated salt solutions with water activity from 0.113 to 0.901 for 3 months at 25°C. The sorption isotherms curves had a sigmoidal shape for all films. Glycerol content affected water vapour adsorption during 3 months. Peleg's equation was appropriate for the mathematical description of the sorption isotherms. The microstructure of pectin films showed different internal arrangement as a function of the film composition.