The production of biomaterials from natural sources has been the subject of recent research, Edible films, which are thin layers used to coat or wrap food, serve as barriers against environmental factors. These films and biopolymers offer a novel, cost-effective, and eco-friendly packaging solution for the food industry, helping to maintain food quality and extend shelf life. Edible films typically contain biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, and polysaccharides are increasingly popular for various applications. However, a key drawback of biodegradable edible films is their inability to resist moisture over extended periods, leading to a loss in their mechanical and physical properties.To overcome this, Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), a hydrophobic PHA biopolymer, was incorporated into starch-based edible films to enhance moisture resistance. The starch and PHB were blended using ultrasonication to ensure a uniform solution, and the film was produced via the solvent-casting method. The resulting PHB-starch composite films were evaluated for various physical and mechanical properties. Films incorporating PHB demonstrated greater moisture resistance and reduced water solubility compared to pure starch films. Additionally, the composite films exhibited improved mechanical properties. They also showed superior barrier properties, such as reduced water vapour permeability, water vapour transmission rate, and oxygen permeability, attributed to the hydrophobic nature of PHB. The use of antibacterial chemicals improves the film's performance even more.Ultrasonication further contributed to the dense molecular arrangement of both polymers, enhancing their resistance to water and oxygen.
