Characteristics of hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) based edible film developed for blueberry coatings

Edible film coatings (EFC) represent a viable preservation technology, they often constitute a water vapor barrier that delays deterioration and maintain the product structural integrity. EFC is a food covering film which can be eaten as part of the food. Hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), a cellulose derivative used in pharmaceutical industries, was employed as the basic formulation component to coat fresh blueberries. Addition of carrageenan, plasticizer and carnauba wax emulsion add value to film structure and functionality. The present work developed and characterized edible films from a food grade additive that is from a natural vegetable and biodegradable origin.