Zeolite as Antibacterial Agent for Active Packaging of Food

The food package is an important factor on food preservation and quality. Microbial growth has been motivating the development of innovations for inhibition of microbial contaminants in foods. Active packaging can be used with the purpose to extend product’s shelf life. The inclusion of antimicrobial substances in plastic films has the purpose of their gradual release on the surface of the food, inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, increasing the shelf life and safety of the product [1]. The antimicrobial activity of silver containing zeolites on different microorganisms has been studied elsewhere, drawing commercial and industrial interest, mainly on health and food applications. This study aimed at the preparation of antimicrobial films based on silver (Ag) exchanged zeolite. Silver exchanged zeolite showed antimicrobial activity on E. coli were those prepared with 5% zeolite containing 5% silver, showing the potential application of such films in food preservation and safety [1-2].