Integration of benzoic acid‐loaded nanocellulose fibers on biodegradable poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) matrix and its application into food preservation.

An active food‐packaging film based on biodegradable poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) was fabricated by spraying benzoic acid (BZ)‐loaded nanocellulose dispersions on corona‐treated PHBV films. Corona treatment augmented surface hydrophilicity (contact angle: 46°) and roughness (~60 nm) of the film. While roughness (10 nm from 60 nm) and oxygen permeability (42 cc/m2 day from 205 cc/m2 day) significantly reduced with unaffected water vapor transmission rate, tensile strength (9.85 MPa) and elongation (1.96%) enhanced upon nanocellulose coating on the corona‐treated film. The BZ (23 wt% loading) containing coated film displayed excellent antibacterial activity up to 6 days, demonstrating immense potential in food‐packaging applications. Highlights: Effect of corona treatment on hydrophobic poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) film was evaluated.Surface hydrophilicity and roughness were introduced on PHBV film after corona exposure.Antimicrobial‐loaded Nanofibrillated cellulose coating enhanced antibacterial activity of film preserving its mechanical and barrier properties.BZ‐NFC‐PHBV film increased the shelf life of watermelon juice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]