Development and characterization of biodegradable films based on starch extracted from mango (Mangifera indica L.) seed almond

Abstract

The use of biopolymers from renewable sources for the development of biodegradable films represents a sustainable alternative to mitigate the environmental impacts associated with the improper disposal of agro-industrial waste and synthetic packaging. In this study, starch was extracted from mango seed almonds (Mangifera indica L.) through an aqueous extraction process involving grinding, filtration, sedimentation, and drying. Biodegradable starch-based films were produced using the casting method, incorporating glycerol and sorbitol as plasticizers. Five formulations were obtained (two containing glycerol and three containing sorbitol) and characterized in terms of continuity, uniformity, handling, color, transparency/opacity, thickness, grammage, moisture content, solubility, mechanical properties, and soil biodegradability. Films exhibited satisfactory continuity and uniformity, with no bubbles or cracks, low moisture content, and reduced water solubility, which favored rapid degradation in soil. The films were transparent and presented low opacity values, indicating good optical quality. No toxicity analyses were performed in this study. Overall, the results indicate that films produced from mango seed almond starch display suitable physicochemical and mechanical properties combined with high soil biodegradability, highlighting their potential as sustainable alternatives to conventional polymeric materials.