February 8, 2025 | Prevention Nutrition and Food Science |
Conducted by Tadulako University and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) in Indonesia, the study focused on evaluating the feasibility of using rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) seed starch as a material for biodegradable edible films. The research aimed to evaluate the physical, mechanical, and environmental properties of films made with two starch concentrations (3% and 4%) and plasticized with varying levels of glycerol and sorbitol (1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0% w/v).
The optimal formulation was identified as 4% starch combined with 1% glycerol and 1% sorbitol. This combination yielded films with good thickness, tensile strength, elongation, and elasticity, along with acceptable water absorption rates. Infrared spectroscopy showed that the film formation occurred through physical mixing without the formation of new chemical bonds. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that sorbitol had better compatibility with rambutan starch than glycerol, resulting in smoother film surfaces.
Biodegradability testing showed that the films completely degraded within seven days, highlighting their environmental sustainability. The findings support the use of rambutan seed starch as a viable, low-cost material for developing eco-friendly edible packaging films.
