Biofunctional date seed derived carbon quantum dots loaded biopolymer film for mushroom preservation

Abstract

Provided are new food packaging materials and methods of making new food packaging materials using alginate incorporated with carbon quantum dots (CQDs) derived from date seeds. The date seed-derived CQDs, synthesized via a hydrothermal process, exhibit luminescence, hydrophilicity, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. When incorporated into alginate films at varying concentrations, the CQDs significantly enhance the flexibility, controlled water vapor transmission, and functional attributes of the packaging material film. In some embodiments, the CQD-loaded films effectively preserve mushrooms at room temperature for seven days, preventing spoilage by regulating gas exchange and minimizing moisture buildup. This sustainable, biodegradable new food packaging material overcomes the limitations of conventional polyethylene films, which foster spoilage and environmental harm. This invention provides a cost-effective, environmentally friendly solution to extend the shelf life of perishable foods while leveraging biological waste for advanced, high-performance food packaging materials.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.