Original article: Use of nano‐clay (Cloisite Na⁺) improves tensile strength and vapour permeability in agar rich red algae (<i>Gelidium corneum</i>)–gelatin composite films

Abstract

Summary In this study, we aimed to improve the physical properties of Gelidium corneum –gelatin (GCG) film by including nano‐clay in the film‐forming solution and tested the antimicrobial properties of the thymol‐containing composite film as a packaging material for chicken breast. Addition of nano‐clay improved the physical properties of GCG film. The tensile strength of the GCG film containing 1% Cloisite Na + was 38.13 MPa, compared to the 26.65 MPa for the GCG film. The water vapour permeability of the GCG film was 3.56 ng m m −2 sPa, while that of the GCG film with 1% Cloisite Na + was 3.24 ng m m −2 sPa. Incorporation of thymol into the film had its antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes . When used to pack chicken breast, the GCG/nano‐clay film containing thymol inhibited microbial growth during storage.