Identification of microorganisms present in a novo biopolymer based on nanocellulose from Stipa spp. Stipa spp. and Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) essential oil for food packaging using next-generation sequencing

Antonio G.T.; Ratti A.; Barreda E.F. · Applied Food Research (2026) · DOI: 10.1016/j.afres.2026.102336

Resumen

Food preservation and safety are major concerns in the food industry. One promising solution is antimicrobial packaging, which incorporates compounds that help slow down microbial growth and extend shelf life. This study focuses on the analysis of a biopolymer film made from nanocellulose extracted from Stipa spp , a plant native to Peru, combined with 0.5% Eucalyptus globulus essential oil as an antimicrobial compound, starch and glycerin. To assess its effectiveness, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) was used to analyze the microorganisms present at different stages of the film production process. DNA extraction and sequencing revealed shifts in bacterial communities throughout production. The most common genera identified were Bacillus, Gordonia, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas , and Staphylococcus . The results indicate that some microorganisms persist during the biopolymer production process, likely due to environmental factors and handling conditions. Films without essential oil had higher levels of Acinetobacter, Bacillus , and Salmonella , whereas those containing eucalyptus oil showed greater microbial diversity, suggesting a potential antimicrobial effect of the film. Further research is needed to better understand how long the eucalyptus oil retains its antimicrobial properties and whether this biopolymer could be a viable option for active food packaging. Copyright

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos; Universidad de Ingeniería y Tecnología