Evaluation of smart packaging functions of black carrot extract with polysaccharide-based films

This work aims to assess the manufacture of polysaccharide-based films derived from carrot waste incorporating pectin (P) and a developed alginate (A) matrix with black carrot extract (BC). P was extracted from carrot waste with a hot acid extraction methodology. The extraction yield was determined to be 17.71%. Biopolymer films designated A/P and A/P/BC were produced via the casting technique. In the films, carrot P and A solution were utilized at varying concentrations (0–1% by weight) to attain a total biopolymer content of 2% by weight. Furthermore, BC was integrated into the film at concentrations of 0.2%, 0.4%, and 0.6% (v/v). Analyses of opacity, swelling, moisture, dynamic mechanical strength, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were conducted to characterize the films. Furthermore, pH values of 4, 8, and 12 were chosen to evaluate the films' sensitivity to pH. The findings indicated that P concentration significantly influenced the opacity, swelling, and moisture content of the film samples, while concurrently reducing their mechanical strength. Additionally, as the amount of BC incorporated into the films grew, both opacity and mechanical strength enhanced, while moisture content diminished. The results revealed that carrot P and BC could be utilized in the production of smart packaging films. The production of these composite films represents an innovative strategy to address food waste that would otherwise be discarded, hence mitigating environmental effect. This concept has the ability to generate sustainable biobased packaging while simultaneously minimizing waste production. © 2025 Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Union of Chemists in Bulgaria.