Coccolithophore microalgae, such as Emiliania huxleyi (EHUX) and Chrysotila pseudoroscoffensis (CP), are composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and contain bioactive compounds. This study incorporated these microalgae as fillers in starch-based films to create biodegradable and bioactive food packaging. Films were produced using varying proportions of filler (2.5, 5, 10, and 20%, w/w), and compared to films with commercial CaCO3. Microalgae incorporation reduced film rigidity, while their hydrophobic compounds increased surface hydrophobicity. Unlike commercial CaCO3, microalgae-containing films exhibited antioxidant activity, with EHUX 20% showing 60.4% ABTS radical inhibition. Overall, microalgae improved film hydrophobicity and antioxidant capacity, suggesting potential for active and sustainable food packaging.

Ana S P Moreira, Joana Gonçalves, Francisco Sousa, Inês Maia, Hugo Pereira, Joana Silva, Manuel A Coimbra, Paula Ferreira, Cláudia Nunes