Synthetic Biofilms: A Greener and Safer Solution for Food Preservation

Food waste has been on the rise, prompting the development of food preservation films using biopolymers. However, these materials lack antibacterial properties, necessitating the use of additives. Synthetic biology offers a greener and safer approach by integrating antibacterial peptides into materials. In this project, we aimed to create food preservation films with extended decay time using existing biopolymer materials. We introduced antimicrobial peptides into silk fibroin-based films via a biological synthesis approach, starting with cecropin-1 but switching to Magainin-2 due to toxicity issues. These peptides were then integrated with silk protein solution to form fresh-keeping films that can be sprayed and coated on vegetables and fruits. To reduce costs, we further introduced low-cost antibacterial peptide Nisin, which is obtained from natural products. Our research demonstrated the market potential of our product, and we aim to achieve productization in the near future.

Description

Experiment

APMS

SAFETY & FRESHNESS

Notebook

Human Practice

Team