Honey–Propolis-Enriched Pectin Films for Active Packaging of Soluble Coffee and Matcha Powders

TL;DR

This study creates edible films using pectin, honey, and propolis to preserve the quality of soluble coffee and matcha powders.

Contribution

The novelty lies in using propolis in pectin-honey films for active packaging of powdered beverages.

Findings

Propolis increased antioxidant activity and phenolic content in the films.

Films preserved the sensory and physicochemical quality of soluble coffee and matcha powders.

Higher propolis concentrations showed the most significant improvements in film functionality.

Abstract

This study reports the development and characterization of novel active edible films based on apple pectin and honey (80:20, w/w), incorporating raw propolis powder at 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3% (w/w, relative to honey) as a natural source of bioactive compounds for sustainable packaging of soluble coffee and matcha powders. The study aims to provide sustainable and functional packaging solutions capable of maintaining the stability and quality of these powdered beverages. The effects of honey and propolis incorporation on the physicochemical, mechanical, optical, and microbiological properties of the films were systematically evaluated. Propolis addition resulted in decreased tensile strength, elastic modulus, and elongation at break, but did not significantly alter the thermal stability of the films, as evidenced by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. Increasing propolis concentrations led to higher total phenolic content and significantly improved antioxidant activity, with the 0.3% formulation exhibiting the most pronounced effect. Application tests demonstrated that the honey–propolis-enriched pectin films effectively preserved the sensory attributes and physicochemical quality of soluble coffee and matcha powders. Overall, these results highlight the potential of pectin–honey–propolis films as bioactive carriers and functional materials for active packaging of powdered beverages.

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