Biodegradable Chitosan–Casein Films Derived From Dairy Waste for Sustainable Applications
Online First: 12/05/2026
Corressponding author's email:
hoanv@ntu.edu.vnDOI:
https://doi.org/10.54644/jte.2026.2083Keywords:
Casein, Chitosan, Biodegradable films, Expired milk valorization, Food packaging materialsAbstract
Increasing dairy waste presents significant challenges for sustainable disposal. In this study, expired milk was utilized as a casein source to produce biodegradable films, thereby valorizing dairy by-products. Recovered casein, chitosan as a bio-reinforcer, and glutaraldehyde (GA) were combined via solution casting to fabricate the films. Casein blended with chitosan to form continuous, self-supporting films with uniform thickness and stable morphology. The film properties depended on the mixing ratio. Films with a 3:5:2 weight ratio (casein/chitosan/GA) exhibited a smoother surface, higher tensile strength (10.18 ± 0.04 MPa), and lower swelling compared to those with the 4:5:1 formulation. These results indicate that chitosan reinforces the composite matrix structure. The films demonstrated significant degradation under high humidity, indicating good biodegradability. However, none of the films exhibited antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli. These films may serve as potential eco-friendly packaging materials for low-moisture foods, thereby supporting sustainable food processing and packaging.
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