Effect of Antimicrobial Edible Films on the Sensory and Physical Properties of Organic Spinach in Salad Bags

The effects of antimicrobial edible films containing carvacrol and cinnamaldehyde on organic baby spinach were determined via sensory analysis and changes in physical properties. Edible films made from pulp of hibiscus, apple, or carrot containing carvacrol or cinnamaldehyde at 0.5%, 1.5%, or 3% concentrations were added to organic baby spinach in plastic bags. These bags were stored at 4°C for 20-24h before performing sensory evaluation and measuring changes in physical properties. A randomized block design with an affective test was used. Preference liking was evaluated based on a 9-point hedonic scale for aroma, color, freshness, mouthfeel, flavor, and overall acceptability. Additionally, panelists quantified each sample using a 5-point hedonic scale for pungency, browning, bitterness, off-odor, and sourness. The color and texture of spinach samples were measured. Edible films containing cinnamaldehyde had the highest preference liking based on aroma, color, freshness, mouthfeel, flavor, and overall acceptability than those containing carvacrol and were the most likely to be purchased by panelists; therefore, cinnamaldehyde can potentially be used as an alternative sanitization option. There were no significant (p ≤ 0.05) changes in firmness or color values between spinach treated with antimicrobial films and controls. The results provide the produce industry with options for incorporating antimicrobial films into salad bags without influencing the physical or sensory properties of baby spinach.