Preparation and characterization of licorice root extract infused bio-composite film and their application on storage stability of chhana balls-a Sandesh like product

Abstract

The present study was conducted to analyze the antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of licorice root extracts (LREs), to develop and characterize a licorice root ethanol extract (LREE) infused bio-composite film for its application on storage stability of chhana balls-a Sandesh like product. In vitro assays showed that ethanol:water (1:1) extract of licorice root had highest antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive strains (except Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 700699) and fungus isolate [Candida albicans (BM/1)], however, ethanol fraction had significant (p<0.05) antioxidant potential. Bio-composite film added with different concentrations of LREE were produced and characterized as an active wrapping material. With increase in LREE concentration, film thickness, solubility, hue angle, chroma value and antimicrobial activity increased whereas water vapor transmission rate, transparency and whiteness index decreased. LREE containing films manifested inhibitory effect against only Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus, L. monocytogenes and B. cereus) and C. albicans. Chhana balls wrapped in LREE containing films showed significant (p<0.05) protection against lipid oxidation, microbial spoilage and could be stored up to 15 days without much affecting its overall acceptability.