Gelatin-coated paper with antimicrobial and antioxidant effect for beef packaging

•Packing paper sheet was coated with active biopolymeric solution based on gelatin.•The gelatin coating improved barrier properties but reduced strength of paper.•Packaged beef with active paper sheets showed a lower microbial population.•Lipid oxidation was prevented by citric acid contained in the coating.•Active paper sheets prolonged the desirable red color of packaged beef.