Insight into the physicochemical characterization of composite orange peel fabricated packaging film: Fighting foodborne pathogens and oxidative stress

This study aimed to develop and characterize orange peel extract (OPE)-loaded biopolymer composite films using Arabic gum (AG) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as the base matrix via casting method. These films' antimicrobial and antioxidant properties were assessed to evaluate their potential as active food packaging materials. The GC–MS analysis confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds in OPE, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, contributing to its vigorous antioxidant activity (DPPH inhibition of 100 %) and antibacterial efficacy (inhibition zone of 31.7 mm against Salmonella enterica and 29.0 mm against E. coli O157). The fabricated films (AG/CMC, OPE4@AG/CMC, and OPE6@AG/CMC) were evaluated for mechanical strength, permeability, antioxidant capacity, and antibacterial activity. The results showed that OPE6@AG/CMC had the highest total phenolic content (165.3 ± 3.14 mg GAE/g) and FRAP antioxidant activity (453.8 ± 4.36 μM Trolox/mg extract). Antibacterial assessments demonstrated that OPE6@AG/CMC exhibited the most significant bacterial inhibition, with inhibition zones of 26.33 mm (S. enterica), 23.67 mm (E. coli O157), and 19.0 mm (S. aureus). Moreover, OPE6@AG/CMC effectively reduced bacterial growth within 12 h, confirming its strong antimicrobial potential. The films also showed excellent biocompatibility, as reported by toxicity assays, making them safe for food-related applications. Water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and oxygen transmission rate (OTR) analyses indicated that OPE incorporation improved barrier properties, supporting its suitability for food preservation. The OPE6@AG/CMC film emerged as the most effective formulation due to its superior antioxidant, antibacterial, and barrier properties, highlighting its potential as a sustainable and functional active packaging material.