A High‐Efficiency Yet Sustainable Fresh‐Keeping Strategy Inspired by Calyx of Physalis peruviana

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Authors: Yue Zhao, Chengbang Lu, Xiaopeng Bai, Shangyi Wu, Zeyu Wang, Yuqin Hu, Binxin Liang, Danlei Sun, Yunxiang Zhang, Yingning He, Yi Yang, Shengwen Duan
+6 more Taolin Sun, Xinjie Wang, Weijie Lan, Hong Zhang, Yang Luo, Xiangyu Liang
Cited by: 1
References: 31

Abstract

ABSTRACT To address the dual challenges of foodborne illness and plastic pollution, we present a sprayable, calyx‐inspired food wrap engineered for safety and sustainability. Utilizing handheld electrospraying, zeolite‐doped polycaprolactone forms a multi‐scale network mimicking Physalis peruviana ’s protective structure. This polycaprolactone/chitosan/zeolite wrap provides a health‐critical barrier, achieving >95% inhibition of tobacco mosaic virus and >92% antibacterial efficacy against pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus . Additionally, it maintains high breathability (∼1500 g·m −2 ·day −1 ) to prevent food spoilage. Crucially, the wrap is non‐toxic and fully biodegradable within 180 days, eliminating microplastic risks. In real‐world validation, it extended the shelf life of perishable fruits by >7 days without quality loss, reducing food waste. Life cycle assessment confirmed an 84.97% reduction in CO 2 emissions compared with conventional wraps, directly contributing to environmental health. This technology offers a scalable solution for sustainable nutrition security through a user‐friendly application, enhanced food safety, and rapid environmental degradation.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Nanocomposite Films for Food Packaging Electrospun Nanofibers in Biomedical Applications biodegradable polymer synthesis and properties

Publication details

Journal / source
Exploration
Publisher
Wiley
Pages
20250786–20250786
Publication date
29 July 2026
Language
EN