Dual‐Function Composite Films: Integrating Pathogen Attraction and Stimulus‐Responsive Antimicrobial Release for Enhanced Beef Preservation

Food‐borne pathogens, such as Escherichia coli O157:H7, pose a major threat to food safety and public health. Innovative strategies are urgently needed to enhance the antimicrobial efficacy of perishable products and extend their shelf life. Herein, citral silk fibroin nanoparticles (CL/SFNPs) were synthesized and integrated into fucoidan/sodium alginate films to obtain dual‐function composite films with pathogen attraction and stimulus‐responsive release of antibacterial components. The synthesized CL/SFNPs had a size of 255.64 ± 2.96 nm, an encapsulation efficiency of 68.51% for citral and good stability. The nanoparticles produced responsive citral release under the stimulation of serine protease hydrolysis activity secreted by Escherichia coli O157:H7, with an antibacterial rate of up to 99.99%. l ‐Fucose in the composite film endowed the film system with chemoattractant activity against E. coli O157:H7, further accelerated the release of citral and quickly formed an antibacterial effect. In addition, the composite film also possessed good barrier properties and mechanical strength. The results of the applied study showed that the composite film reduced the number of bacteria on the surface of fresh beef by 95.02%, significantly delayed lipid oxidation and maintained the pH value, colour stability and texture of beef during a 5‐day storage period. This study highlights the potential of bioresponsive nanocomposite films as active packaging in ensuring food safety and quality.