Extraction of starch from Hass avocado seeds for the preparation of biofilms

Abstract

Biofilms arise as an alternative to replace synthetic polymers, which have generated environmental pollution. The aim of this work was to extract starch from Hass avocado seeds (Persea americana Mill) to produce biofilms. Starch was extracted using the wet method and characterized by infrared spectroscopy. Moisture, ash content, gelatinization temperature, and color were determined. Two types of biofilms were produced: T1 (starch) and T2 (starch and glycerol). The colour was measured, and the films were characterized by mechanical tests. A yield of 11.38% was obtained for the isolated starch. Glycerol addition significantly influenced the tensile strength being T1 higher than T2. In elongation percentage, T1 was lower than T2. The results indicate that it is possible to use Hass avocado seed waste for starch extraction and produce biofilms to give it added value. This biofilm can be used in low moisture food coatings.