Biodegradable active packaging for raspberries: Shelf-Life assessment using polyvinyl alcohol-based films

: The increasing demand for eco-friendly food packaging, expected to surpass USD 530 billion globally by 2027, has intensified research into biodegradable films with multifunctional properties. This study aimed to develop and evaluate polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based bioactive films enhanced with itaconic acid (IA), chitosan (Ch), and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as sustainable packaging for extending the shelf life of raspberries. Four film formulations: PVA (control), PVA+AgNP, PVA+IA+AgNP, and PVA+Ch+AgNP, were tested for effects on weight loss, microbial growth, antioxidant activity, and biodegradability. All bioactive films reduced raspberry weight loss and microbial levels compared with uncoated fruit. The PVA+Ch+AgNP film exhibited the strongest antimicrobial effect (MICs of 0.39% for S. aureus and 3.12% for E. coli ) and high antioxidant activity (61.31% CUPRAC). Flow tests confirmed suitability for fruit coating, and after eight weeks in soil, PVA+Ch+AgNP films lost 43.69% of mass, demonstrating biodegradability. These results suggest PVA-based films with Ch and AgNPs are effective, eco-friendly alternatives to plastic packaging for perishable fruits.