Storage Stability of Rhynchophorus phoenicis Larvae Powder: Changes in Nutritional, Physicochemical, Water and Oil Absorption Properties Under Packaging Materials

Packaging control is a key aspect of the food sector for ensuring the stability and quality of food products. In this study, the storage stability of defatted Rhynchophorus phoenicis larvae powder was evaluated by analyzing the influence of three packaging materials on its nutritional, physicochemical, and techno-functional properties during storage. Defatted Rhynchophorus phoenicis larvae powder was packaged in polyethylene (PE), brown kraft paper (BP), and polypropylene (PP) and stored at room temperature for 60 days. Nutritional composition (protein, lipids, carbohydrates), physicochemical parameters (moisture content, pH, lipid oxidation indices: acid value, peroxide value, TBARS), and techno-functional properties (water and oil absorption capacities) were monitored periodically to assess storage stability. The initial powder contained 31.54% protein, 27.66% lipids, and 30.02% carbohydrates, with low lipid oxidation and hydrolysis. During storage, moisture content increased in BP and PP due to high water vapor permeability, while PE maintained a stable moisture content (~5.5%). pH decreased in all samples, but PE maintained pH at 6.57 on day 30 compared to 5.57 in PP. Lipid deterioration (acid value, peroxide value, TBARS) was pronounced in BP and PP, whereas PE limited these changes. Techno-functional properties evolved differently: water absorption capacity increased in BP and PP, but PE showed a transient increase followed by stabilization; oil absorption capacity increased in PE but decreased in BP and PP. Polyethylene packaging effectively preserved the nutritional, physicochemical, and functional quality of defatted R. phoenicis larvae powder during storage, whereas brown kraft paper and polypropylene were inadequate for long-term stability. PE is recommended for sustainable storage of insect-derived powders.