Characterization and antimicrobial activity studies of polypropylene films with carvacrol and thymol for active packaging

► Thymol and carvacrol were incorporated to PP to get antimicrobial active films. ► A full characterization of all formulations was carried out. ► The presence of additives in the polymer matrix after processing was demonstrated. ► The antimicrobial activity of films against two bacteria was evaluated. ► PP films have demonstrated their ability as supporting matrix for active additives.