Starch-based composite foam for chicken meat packaging

The development of compostable packages that maintain fresh meat quality, is an important achievement for the poultry industry. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using a starch-based composite foam (SCF) in the packaging of fresh chicken meat during refrigerated storage. SCF was prepared using extrusion process. Nisin (2%) was added as antimicrobial agent (SCFN). Commercial expanded polystyrene (EPS) was used as control. Physical characterization, antimicrobial analysis and storage of fresh chicken meat were carried out. No differences were observed in SEM images between SFC and SCFN samples. Water uptake of SCF were higher than SCFN ( p < 0.05). SCFN exhibited higher Young´s modulus and flexural strength ( p < 0.05), and antimicrobial effect against foodborne pathogens. During the storage of chicken meat, the starch-based composite foam showed a higher capacity to retain liquid than EPS. The color of chicken meat had slight variations at day 4 compared with the raw meat. Nisin did not retard lipid oxidation of chicken meat, however, the aerobic plate count was lower. Therefore, the starch-based composite foam is suitable for fresh meat storage, being improved with the incorporation of nisin as antimicrobial agent.