Improvement of the UV‐resistance capability of fish gelatin‐oxidized starch film via inserting mycosporine‐like amino acids

Abstract BACKGROUND Mycosporine‐like amino acids (MAAs) are known as the strongest solar guardians in nature. RESULTS In the present study, the extraction of MAAs from dried Pyropia haitanensis was achieved. Fish gelatin and oxidized starch composite films embedded with MAAs (0–0.3% w/w) were fabricated. The maximum absorption wavelength of the composite film appeared at 334 nm, which was consistent with MAA solution. Furthermore, the UV absorption intensity of the composite film was highly dependent on the concentration of MAAs. The composite film exhibited excellent stability during the 7‐day storage period. The physicochemical features of composite film were demonstrated by the measurement of water content, water vapor transmission rate, oil transmission, and visual characteristics. Furthermore, in the actual anti‐UV effect investigation, the increase in peroxide value and the acid value of grease under the films coverage was delayed. In the meantime, the decrease in ascorbic acid content in dates was postponed, and survivability of Escherichia coli was increased. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that fish gelatin‐oxidized starch‐mycosporine‐like amino acids film (FOM film) with biodegradable and anti‐ultraviolet properties has a high potential for usage in food packaging materials. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.