Food and drinks

Nanocomposite film from tilapia gelatin

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Context

Extrusion is a standard process to produce conventional packaging film derived from petroleum. However, it is not appropriate to process gelatin, because its thermal stability is lower than the conventional polymers one. Thus, continuous casting is more appropriate to process films made of polysaccharides, proteins, etc, since it requires lower temperatures.

About the asset

It is a process to obtain nanocomposite film from gelatin by continuous casting using tilapia processing waste. The film is used as a barrier for food packaging. The process consists of: mixing process, to obtain film-forming dispersion composed of gelatin, plasticizer, and reinforced nanostructures; vacuum degassing, to remove bubbles; and continuous casting, to form and subsequently dry the film. The result is a biopolymeric film, with better mechanical properties for food packaging, and that can replace conventional plastics. The asset is promising for application as primary packaging (directly in contact with food) for foods that are not high in moisture, such as dried fruits and breakfast cereals.
Technology readiness level on TRL/MRL scale: 4
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Theoretical models
Lab assays
Pilot scale
Final/full scale
Proof of concept
Prototypes
Market

* Learn more about the TRL/MRL scale Embrapa adopted.

Characteristics in comparison with competitors available in the market
Biodegradable films for food packaging that can be used as an alternative to replace materials derived from petroleum, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC films.
Impacts for the production sector and for society
• Biodegradable films used as an alternative to replace materials derived from petroleum.
• Process to be used as food barriers.
• Films with good mechanical resistance.

Portfólio de projetos: Food security

Partnership goals

  • Technical and/or Industrial Validation
  • Codevelopment (proof of concept to prototype)
What is expected from the partnership?
Validation in a production environment and in a commercial scale. Develop products to make them available on the market.
How will the technology be offered to the production sector?
Biodegradable films for food packaging used as an alternative to replace materials derived from petroleum, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC films.
I am interested in this asset

If you are interested in this asset for a partnership with Embrapa, contact us:

Responsible Unit:

Embrapa Agroindústria Tropical

Contact for business:

Deputy Head of Technological Transfer

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