Evaluation of storage stability and biochemical changes in plant-based meat analogue in active PLA-based packaging system

The growing demand for plant-based meat (PBM) highlights the need for innovative packaging technologies to enhance product stability, as PBM is inherently prone to limited shelf life. Polylactic acid (PLA)-based active packaging presents a promising solution for extending PBM storage duration while aligning with sustainability goals. This study evaluates the effectiveness of antimicrobial PLA-based films in maintaining PBM quality over a 21-day refrigerated storage period. Active packaging materials were formulated by incorporating cinnamaldehyde (CEO) and metal oxide nanoparticles (ZnO, CuO) into the PLA matrix. Moisture evaporation and microbial proliferation are key challenges affecting PBM quality and safety during storage. The samples were subsequently subjected to biochemical analyses alongside FTIR spectroscopy to evaluate structural and compositional changes during storage. Results demonstrated that 2 %CEO/PLA films effectively retained moisture due to the plasticizing effect of cinnamaldehyde. In contrast, 2 %ZnO/PLA and 2 %CuO/PLA films exhibited superior antimicrobial activity, thus limiting the growth of spoilage bacteria. Among the tested films, 2 %ZnO/PLA showed the most promising performance, providing enhanced barrier properties, structural coherence, and antimicrobial functionality, as evidenced by minimal shifts in the FTIR spectra over the storage period. These findings highlight FTIR as a sustainable and non-invasive tool for monitoring the shelf life of PBM and demonstrate the potential of nanocomposite PLA films as eco-friendly packaging solutions for preserving product quality.