Nisin-loaded pectin nanoparticles for food preservation

• Nisin-loaded pectin nanoparticles were prepared based on the complexation method.
• Three types of pectin biopolymer were tested.
• Physicochemical properties of nisin-loaded biopolymer particles were investigated.
• Nisin-loaded pectin nanoparticles exhibited antimicrobial activity.
• Nisin-loaded pectic acid nanoparticles were identified as the most suitable.

Nisin is a small cationic peptide composed of 34 amino acid residues. It exhibits a wide spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria and is suitable for food preservation. In order to protect nisin from the interaction with food components and to ensure the stability of antimicrobial peptide during food processing and storage period, the preparation of nisin-loaded pectin nanoparticles in the simple and low cost way based on the complexation method is presented. Three types of pectin biopolymer were tested and found that the methoxylation degree of pectin influenced on the nisin loading efficiency and particle size. For the complex formation, both electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions were important. Nisin-loaded pectin nanoparticles exhibited antimicrobial activity dependent on the type of biopolymer. In view of particle size and antimicrobial activity, nisin-loaded pectic acid nanoparticles were identified as the most suitable and perspective to be used in food industry as an anti-microbial system.

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