Development and Characterization of the Reinforced Soy Protein Isolate-Based Nanocomposite Film with CuO and TiO2 Nanoparticles

The present study aimed to develop and characterize the soy protein isolate (SPI) nanocomposite film incorporated with CuO and TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) for application as an active packaging system. The morphology study of films showed that the incorporation of NPs caused the formation of a dense and compact structure. The creation of interactions among SPI matrix and NPs was approved via Fourier transforms infrared structural conformations. The mechanical properties of SPI-based film were improved through the incorporation of NPs. The film sample incorporated with CuO and TiO2 NPs at 1% of concentration showed the lowest water vapor permeability, moisture content, and water solubility. Additionally, the incorporation of both NPs provided antioxidant activity in the SPI-based films. The L* color parameter was significantly (p < 0.05) decreased with the incorporation of NPs, but the a* and b* color parameters were increased. Moreover, the incorporation of CuO and TiO2 NPs increased the opacity in the SPI-based films. In conclusion, the incorporation of CuO and TiO2 NPs provided suitable physicochemical properties for SPI-based films and the developed nanocomposite films could be applied as an active packaging system for different foodstuffs.