Food preservation technologies are currently facing important challenges at extending the shelf-life of perishable food products that help to meet the daily nutrient requirement demand. Furthermore, food preservation has progressed beyond simple preservation; modern procedures are aimed at achieving two additional goals: the appropriateness of the technologies utilised and the creation of ecologically friendly goods with no adverse health effects. They’re also on the lookout for extra nutritional benefits. The employment of edible films and coatings is one of these preservation methods.
Edible Films and Coating
Food preservation technologies are currently facing important challenges at extending the shelf-life of perishable food products that help to meet the daily nutrient requirement demand. Furthermore, food preservation has progressed beyond simple preservation; modern procedures are aimed at achieving two additional goals: the appropriateness of the technologies utilized and the creation of ecologically friendly goods with no adverse health effects. They’re also on the lookout for extra nutritional benefits. The employment of edible films and coatings is one of these preservation methods.(1)
Any substance with a thickness of less than 0.3 mm that is formed from a combination of biopolymers and other additives dispersed in aqueous media is considered an edible film or coating. Some authors use the phrases edible film and coating interchangeably, while others believe there is a distinction due to the inclusion processes into the food product.The edible coating is applied immediately to the food, whereas the edible film is prepared first and then applied to the product. Despite this, rigid matrices with similar properties are created in both circumstances.
Another reason for film coating is to make the product more stable especially if the product contains active ingredients, which are sensitive to humidity, oxygen, or light. This is to prevent chemical reactions of the active ingredients, which could affect the properties of these ingredients. Delayed release by enteric-coated film coating is another possibility. Coloured coating helps a user to distinguish various products or dosages, but quite often it is also applied for appearance. This can promote a positive feeling and recognition value for a medication or dietary supplement by brand recognition. Film coated tablets are also more resistant to mechanical influences than the uncoated tablets. The end consumer recognises the product as a premium product, associating it with consistent high quality. Another advantage is a certain protection against product counterfeiting by the additional film coating, since complex coating technology requires extensive technical know-how. For soft gel capsules, an enteric coating can eliminate the ‘burping’ problem, which can be a side effect for people with sensitive stomach. These are all ways to promote long-term loyalty in the end consumer.
Let’s create something Innovative and Delicious together
Food Research Lab strives for excellence in new Food, Beverage and Nutraceutical Product Research and Development by offering cutting edge scientific analysis and expertise.
