Fabrication and analysis of nanoemulsion-based edible films loaded with vitamin D3 and Cordia myxa mucilage

Abstract

This study developed a biodegradable nanoemulsion-based edible film containing encapsulated vitamin D3 and Cordia myxa (CM) mucilage to replace synthetic packaging. The mucilage showed strong antimicrobial activity against gram-positive bacteria, 67.4% antioxidant activity, and 218.2 µg/g flavonoid content. Nanoemulsions with various mucilage concentrations were characterized, and the best encapsulation efficiency (91.5%) was observed in the En1 sample. Films with encapsulated nanoemulsions demonstrated reduced water vapor permeability, lower solubility, improved thermal stability, and higher vitamin D3 retention over 14 days. FTIR analysis confirmed polysaccharides as the main component, supporting film biocompatibility. These findings suggest a promising, eco-friendly packaging solution using CM mucilage.