Characterization of synbiotic films based on carboxymethyl cellulose/β-glucan and development of a shelf life prediction model

Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)/β-glucan (BG)-based films (100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75) were developed and characterized to extend the survivability of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 and establish a shelf life prediction model. The incorporation of inulin (IL, 2% and 4%) into the CMC matrix was also assessed. Films containing 2% IL and 50% BG were selected to develop probiotic films due to their suitable physicomechanical and barrier properties. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy spectra and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed good compatibility between prebiotics and CMC films matrix. Although tensile strength and water vapor permeability (WVP) of films reduced by prebiotics addition, their oxygen barrier and extensibility were significantly improved. Acceptable viability of probiotic cells was observed in film containing BG; at 4 °C (8.3 Log CFU/g), 10 °C (8.06 Log CFU/g) and 25 °C (7.37 Log CFU/g), and under simulated gastrointestinal conditions (7.87 Log CFU/g). This new edible film would be inspiring for future bioactive-loaded packaging.