Mahmood Alizadeh Sani - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Mahmood Alizadeh Sani

Research paper thumbnail of Rapid and sensitive detection of tetracycline residue in food samples using Cr(III)-MOF fluorescent sensor

Research paper thumbnail of The impact of cold plasma innovative technology on quality and safety of refrigerated hamburger: Analysis of microbial safety and physicochemical properties

International Journal of Food Microbiology

Research paper thumbnail of Cold plasma technology: Applications in improving edible films and food packaging

Food Packaging and Shelf Life

Research paper thumbnail of High performance biopolymeric packaging films containing zinc oxide nanoparticles for fresh food preservation: A review

International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

Research paper thumbnail of Metal–Organic Framework Fluorescence Sensors for Rapid and Accurate Detection of Melamine in Milk Powder

Biosensors

In this research, a simple, label-free, and ultra-sensitive fluorescent platform based on a metal... more In this research, a simple, label-free, and ultra-sensitive fluorescent platform based on a metal–organic framework (MOF) has been developed to detect melamine in milk powder. This fluorescence sensor was fabricated from sensitized terbium (Tb)@NH2-MIL-253 (Al) MOF using a hydrothermal method that involved combining the green emission of Tb (λem = 545 nm) with the blue emission of NH2-MIL-253(Al) MOF (λem = 430 nm) under a single excitation wavelength (λex = 335 nm). The fluorescence sensor was then used under optimized conditions (pH = 9.0; sensor concentration = 30 mg/L; response time = 30 s) to quantify melamine in milk powder. The accuracy, sensitivity, and reproducibility of this sensor were established compared to the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The linear range and lower limit of detection (LLOD, computed with 3σ/S) of the sensor were between 40–396.45 nM (equal to 25 µg/kg–0.25 mg/kg) and 40 nM (equal to 25 µg/kg), respectively, which is much less t...

Research paper thumbnail of Value-added utilization of fruit and vegetable processing by-products for the manufacture of biodegradable food packaging films

Research paper thumbnail of Bio-nanocomposites as food packaging materials; the main production techniques and analytical parameters

Advances in Colloid and Interface Science

Research paper thumbnail of Design of nanocomposite packaging based on gelatin biopolymer containing titanium dioxide nanoparticles and saffron extract for use in food packaging

Food Science and Technology, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Mitigation of potentially toxic elements in food products by probiotic bacteria: A comprehensive review

Food Research International, 2022

Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) as non-degradable elements (especially carcinogenic types for h... more Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) as non-degradable elements (especially carcinogenic types for humans such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As)) are widely distributed in the environment. They are one of the most concerned pollutants that can be absorbed and accumulated in the human body, primarily via contaminated water and foods. Acute or chronic poisoning of humans to PTEs can pose some serious risks for human health even at low concentrations. In this context, some methods are introduced to eliminate or reduce their concentration. While the biological treatment by bacterial strains, particularly probiotic bacteria, is considered as an effective method for reducing or eliminating of them. The consumption of probiotics as nonpathogenic microorganisms at regular and adequate dose offer some beneficial health impacts, it can also be applied to remove PTEs in both alive and non-alive states. This review aimed to provide an overview regarding the efficacy of different types of probiotic bacteria for PTEs removal from various environments such as food, water, in vitro, and in vivo conditions.

Research paper thumbnail of Titanium dioxide nanoparticles as multifunctional surface-active materials for smart/active nanocomposite packaging films

Advances in Colloid and Interface Science, 2021

Environmental issues such as plastic packaging and high demand for fresh and safe food has increa... more Environmental issues such as plastic packaging and high demand for fresh and safe food has increased the interest for developing smart/active food packaging films with colloidal nanoparticles (NPs). Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TNPs) are cost effective and stable metal oxide NPs which could be used as a functional nano-filler for biodegradable food packaging due to their excellent biocompatibility, photo catalyzing, and antimicrobial properties. This article has comprehensively reviewed the functional properties and advantages of TNPs-containing smart/active films. The advantage of adding TNPs for ameliorating food packaging materials such as their physical, mechanical, moisture/light barrier, optical, thermal resistance, microstructure and chemical properties as well as, antibacterial, and photocatalytic properties are discussed. Also, the practical and migration properties of administrating TNPs in food packaging material are investigated. The ethylene decomposition activity of TNPs containing active films, could be used for increasing the shelf life of fruits/vegetables after harvesting. TNPs are safe with negligible migration rates which could be used for fabrication of multifunctional smart/active packaging films due to their antimicrobial properties and ethylene gas scavenging activities.

Research paper thumbnail of Fabrication of biocomposite films based on sodium caseinate reinforced with gellan and Persian gums and evaluation of physicomechanical and morphology properties

Food Science and Technology, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Optimization of biodegradable film production containing aqueous extract of Chubak root and nanoemulsion of rosemary essential oil based on gelatin by response surface methodology

Food Science and Technology, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Investigating the effects of Oryzatensin, a bioactive peptide, on gut microbiota growth by a new quantitative standard curve-fitting method: An Ex-vivo study

Objective : Oryzatensin (ORZ) is a digestion refractory and bioactive peptide, which is isolated ... more Objective : Oryzatensin (ORZ) is a digestion refractory and bioactive peptide, which is isolated from rice. In the current manuscript, we investigated the effect of ORZ on the growth of gut microbiota. Methods : Ten apparently healthy subjects were enrolled in the current ex-vivo study. Casual stool specimens were obtained from the subjects, then Enterobacteriaceae, Bacilaceae and probiotic bacterial families were isolated using MAC, MYP and MRS selective agars, respectively. The effect of exposure with different concentrations of ORZ (10 -4 , 10 -5 , 10 -6 and 10 -7 M) on the growth of these bacteria was evaluated using standard curve-fitting method, instead of standard qualitative methods such as MBC and MIC, due to the absence of detectable optical differences among the wells. All of the exposures were done in 96-well plates. After exposure to ORZ, the bacterial quantity was measured by evaluation of the suspensions turbidity at 492- 630 nm. The bacteria were cultured without ORZ...

Research paper thumbnail of Formation, Properties, and Reduction Methods of Acrylamide in Foods: A Review Study

Journal of Fasting And Health, 2018

Introduction: Acrylamide is a chemical compound that may form in various starchy foods, such as p... more Introduction: Acrylamide is a chemical compound that may form in various starchy foods, such as potatoes, bread, and bakery products at high temperatures (above 120°C) and during cooking processes. This compound has been identified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a potential cancer-causing compound. The present study aimed to investigate the formation of acrylamide from food components during heat treatment as a result of the Maillard reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted via searching in databases such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, Pub Med, and SID using English or Persian keywords, such as acrylamide and food. Results: Since acrylamide is found in food products, there have been several reports on the presence of acrylamide in fried and oven-cooked foods, which have led to worldwide concern. Acrylamide has been classified as a possible mutagenic and carcinogenic compound in humans. Moreo...

Research paper thumbnail of Investigating the effects of oryzatensin on gut microbiota growth using a novel quantitative standard curve-fitting method: an ex-vivo study

a Department of Food Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz Univ... more a Department of Food Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran b Student Research Committee, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran c Nutrition Research Center, Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences a b b b b Mahmood Alizadeh Sani, Aydin Aynehchi, Meisam Barati, Abed Ghavami, Elyas Nattagh Eshtivani, b b c Amin MokariYamchi, Elnaz Vaghef-Mehrabany, Mehrangiz Ebrahimi-Mameghani

Research paper thumbnail of Associations of Environmental Factors and Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency in Iran

Article type: Research Paper Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is a major health problem, which ... more Article type: Research Paper Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is a major health problem, which is unexpectedly prevalent in Iran. The ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun are considered to be the foremost source of vitamin D in humans. In contrast, several environmental factors could decrease UV transmission to the earth, thereby reducing vitamin D absorption. Considering that the key role of environmental factors in vitamin deficiency has been neglected, the present study aimed to investigate the associations between environmental factors (e.g., geographical and air pollution parameters) with the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Iran. Methods: The duration of the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency were extracted from the previous studies conducted in different cities in Iran, where vitamin D deficiency was reported. Afterwards, the environmental factors that were reported to affect sunlight transmission through the atmosphere were collected based on the place and time of vitamin...

Research paper thumbnail of Analysis and probabilistic health risk assessment of some trace elements contamination and sulphur dioxide residual in raisins

International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Functional biocompatible nanocomposite films consisting of selenium and zinc oxide nanoparticles embedded in gelatin/cellulose nanofiber matrices

International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2021

In recent decades, environmental concerns and increasing consumer demand for healthy and nutritio... more In recent decades, environmental concerns and increasing consumer demand for healthy and nutritious food products with prolonged shelf life have made the food packaging industry pay more attention to the preparation of multifunctional biodegradable packaging films based on biopolymers containing active components such as antioxidant and antimicrobial agents. In this study, bio-nanocomposite films were fabricated from gelatin (G) and cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), and different concentrations of zinc oxide (ZnO) and/or Selenium (Se) nanoparticles (NPs) by the casting method. The mechanical, barrier, optical, and structural (FTIR, XRD, and SEM) properties of the films were investigated along with their antibacterial and antioxidant features. The incorporation of ZnO and Se NPs improved the physicomechanical and water resistance of G/CNF films. In this regard, the maximum tensile strength value was obtained for the G/CNF containing 5% w/w ZnO NPs (G/CNF/ZnO3) and G/CNF containing 0.1% w/w Se NPs (G/CNF/Se2) films (~2.20-fold and ~2.13-fold higher than the G/CNF film, respectively). Also, G/CNF with 3% w/w ZnO NPs (G/CNF/ZnO2) film had the lowest water vapor permeability and water solubility among all films. Results of the disc diffusion assay showed a stronger antibacterial effect of ZnO NPs compared with Se NPs. The bacterial susceptibility to the antibacterial films was as follows: Listeria monocytogenes > Escherichia coli > Staphylococcus aureus > Pseudomonas fluorescens. The G/CNF films incorporated with Se nanoparticles possessed the higher property of scavenging free radicals in comparison films containing ZnO nanoparticles. Also, the combination of Se NPs and ZnO NPs enhanced the antioxidant effect of the films. In conclusion, gelatin-based edible films containing CNFs, ZnO NPs, and Se NPs can be used in the development of active food packaging products.

Research paper thumbnail of Multifunctional nanocomposite active packaging materials: Immobilization of quercetin, lactoferrin, and chitosan nanofiber particles in gelatin films

Food Hydrocolloids, 2021

Abstract The design and fabrication of multifunctional films from natural materials is a major fo... more Abstract The design and fabrication of multifunctional films from natural materials is a major focus of modern packaging research with the aim of creating smart, active, and/or biodegradable packaging. In this study, multifunctional films were created by embedding different kinds of functional nanoparticles into a gelatin-based film prepared by a casting method. The nanoparticles were prepared by crosslinking cationic chitosan nanofibers using anionic sodium tripolyphosphate ions. In some cases, quercetin, lactoferrin, or both were incorporated into these nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were mixed with the hot gelatin solution prior to casting. The appearance, light-screening, water vapor barrier, thermal, mechanical, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and biodegradability/composting characteristics of the nanoparticle-loaded films were then characterized. Dynamic light scattering showed that the size, polydispersity, and charge of the functional nanoparticles depended on their composition. The spectroscopic analysis identified the importance of electrostatic and hydrogen bonds in film formation. Incorporation of the functional nanoparticles into the gelatin films improved their optical, mechanical, barrier, and preservative properties. For instance, the incorporation of quercetin increased the ability of the films to screen UV-light, whereas the incorporation of both lactoferrin and quercetin increased the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the films. Finally, the films were shown to have good biodegradability/composting under environmental conditions, which is important for reducing the negative environmental impacts caused by synthetic packaging.

Research paper thumbnail of The prevalence of foodborne parasites in raw vegetables in Iran: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis

Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering, 2021

Foodborne parasites in raw vegetables could cause parasitic infections in humans. An effective ap... more Foodborne parasites in raw vegetables could cause parasitic infections in humans. An effective approach to the reduction of pathogenic microorganisms in vegetables involves identifying the main sources of contamination and the ecology of the involved microorganisms. This review aimed to evaluate the prevalence of foodborne parasites in raw vegetables in Iran. According to the reviewed studies, the prevalence rate of Ascaris spp., Giardia spp., Toxocara spp., Fasciola, Trichuris, Cryptosporidium, Dicrocoeliasis, Taenia spp., and Entamoeba histolytica was 6 % (95 % CI: 5–8 %), 6 % (95 % CI: 5–7 %), 6 % (95 % CI: 4–7 %), 2 % (95 % CI: 1–2 %), 1 % (95 % CI: 1–2 %), 10 % (95 % CI: 6–15 %), 2 % (95 % CI: 1–3 %), 5 % (95 % CI: 4–6 %), and 3 % (95 % CI: 2–4 %), respectively. According to the standard deviation map, Ilam province was one of the high-risk areas in terms of food-borne parasites in raw vegetables (3 SD < prevalence < 4 SD). Given the key role of raw vegetables in human parasitic contamination, governments must implement more stringent programs for effective wastewater treatment, preventing domestic and wild animals from entering farms, not using human and animal manure on farms, using ready-to-eat packaged vegetables, food safety training for households, implementation of GMP and HACCP in the factory vegetable packaging are required in this regard, especially in the high-risk areas of Iran, such as Ilam province.

Research paper thumbnail of Rapid and sensitive detection of tetracycline residue in food samples using Cr(III)-MOF fluorescent sensor

Research paper thumbnail of The impact of cold plasma innovative technology on quality and safety of refrigerated hamburger: Analysis of microbial safety and physicochemical properties

International Journal of Food Microbiology

Research paper thumbnail of Cold plasma technology: Applications in improving edible films and food packaging

Food Packaging and Shelf Life

Research paper thumbnail of High performance biopolymeric packaging films containing zinc oxide nanoparticles for fresh food preservation: A review

International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

Research paper thumbnail of Metal–Organic Framework Fluorescence Sensors for Rapid and Accurate Detection of Melamine in Milk Powder

Biosensors

In this research, a simple, label-free, and ultra-sensitive fluorescent platform based on a metal... more In this research, a simple, label-free, and ultra-sensitive fluorescent platform based on a metal–organic framework (MOF) has been developed to detect melamine in milk powder. This fluorescence sensor was fabricated from sensitized terbium (Tb)@NH2-MIL-253 (Al) MOF using a hydrothermal method that involved combining the green emission of Tb (λem = 545 nm) with the blue emission of NH2-MIL-253(Al) MOF (λem = 430 nm) under a single excitation wavelength (λex = 335 nm). The fluorescence sensor was then used under optimized conditions (pH = 9.0; sensor concentration = 30 mg/L; response time = 30 s) to quantify melamine in milk powder. The accuracy, sensitivity, and reproducibility of this sensor were established compared to the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The linear range and lower limit of detection (LLOD, computed with 3σ/S) of the sensor were between 40–396.45 nM (equal to 25 µg/kg–0.25 mg/kg) and 40 nM (equal to 25 µg/kg), respectively, which is much less t...

Research paper thumbnail of Value-added utilization of fruit and vegetable processing by-products for the manufacture of biodegradable food packaging films

Research paper thumbnail of Bio-nanocomposites as food packaging materials; the main production techniques and analytical parameters

Advances in Colloid and Interface Science

Research paper thumbnail of Design of nanocomposite packaging based on gelatin biopolymer containing titanium dioxide nanoparticles and saffron extract for use in food packaging

Food Science and Technology, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Mitigation of potentially toxic elements in food products by probiotic bacteria: A comprehensive review

Food Research International, 2022

Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) as non-degradable elements (especially carcinogenic types for h... more Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) as non-degradable elements (especially carcinogenic types for humans such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As)) are widely distributed in the environment. They are one of the most concerned pollutants that can be absorbed and accumulated in the human body, primarily via contaminated water and foods. Acute or chronic poisoning of humans to PTEs can pose some serious risks for human health even at low concentrations. In this context, some methods are introduced to eliminate or reduce their concentration. While the biological treatment by bacterial strains, particularly probiotic bacteria, is considered as an effective method for reducing or eliminating of them. The consumption of probiotics as nonpathogenic microorganisms at regular and adequate dose offer some beneficial health impacts, it can also be applied to remove PTEs in both alive and non-alive states. This review aimed to provide an overview regarding the efficacy of different types of probiotic bacteria for PTEs removal from various environments such as food, water, in vitro, and in vivo conditions.

Research paper thumbnail of Titanium dioxide nanoparticles as multifunctional surface-active materials for smart/active nanocomposite packaging films

Advances in Colloid and Interface Science, 2021

Environmental issues such as plastic packaging and high demand for fresh and safe food has increa... more Environmental issues such as plastic packaging and high demand for fresh and safe food has increased the interest for developing smart/active food packaging films with colloidal nanoparticles (NPs). Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TNPs) are cost effective and stable metal oxide NPs which could be used as a functional nano-filler for biodegradable food packaging due to their excellent biocompatibility, photo catalyzing, and antimicrobial properties. This article has comprehensively reviewed the functional properties and advantages of TNPs-containing smart/active films. The advantage of adding TNPs for ameliorating food packaging materials such as their physical, mechanical, moisture/light barrier, optical, thermal resistance, microstructure and chemical properties as well as, antibacterial, and photocatalytic properties are discussed. Also, the practical and migration properties of administrating TNPs in food packaging material are investigated. The ethylene decomposition activity of TNPs containing active films, could be used for increasing the shelf life of fruits/vegetables after harvesting. TNPs are safe with negligible migration rates which could be used for fabrication of multifunctional smart/active packaging films due to their antimicrobial properties and ethylene gas scavenging activities.

Research paper thumbnail of Fabrication of biocomposite films based on sodium caseinate reinforced with gellan and Persian gums and evaluation of physicomechanical and morphology properties

Food Science and Technology, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Optimization of biodegradable film production containing aqueous extract of Chubak root and nanoemulsion of rosemary essential oil based on gelatin by response surface methodology

Food Science and Technology, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Investigating the effects of Oryzatensin, a bioactive peptide, on gut microbiota growth by a new quantitative standard curve-fitting method: An Ex-vivo study

Objective : Oryzatensin (ORZ) is a digestion refractory and bioactive peptide, which is isolated ... more Objective : Oryzatensin (ORZ) is a digestion refractory and bioactive peptide, which is isolated from rice. In the current manuscript, we investigated the effect of ORZ on the growth of gut microbiota. Methods : Ten apparently healthy subjects were enrolled in the current ex-vivo study. Casual stool specimens were obtained from the subjects, then Enterobacteriaceae, Bacilaceae and probiotic bacterial families were isolated using MAC, MYP and MRS selective agars, respectively. The effect of exposure with different concentrations of ORZ (10 -4 , 10 -5 , 10 -6 and 10 -7 M) on the growth of these bacteria was evaluated using standard curve-fitting method, instead of standard qualitative methods such as MBC and MIC, due to the absence of detectable optical differences among the wells. All of the exposures were done in 96-well plates. After exposure to ORZ, the bacterial quantity was measured by evaluation of the suspensions turbidity at 492- 630 nm. The bacteria were cultured without ORZ...

Research paper thumbnail of Formation, Properties, and Reduction Methods of Acrylamide in Foods: A Review Study

Journal of Fasting And Health, 2018

Introduction: Acrylamide is a chemical compound that may form in various starchy foods, such as p... more Introduction: Acrylamide is a chemical compound that may form in various starchy foods, such as potatoes, bread, and bakery products at high temperatures (above 120°C) and during cooking processes. This compound has been identified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a potential cancer-causing compound. The present study aimed to investigate the formation of acrylamide from food components during heat treatment as a result of the Maillard reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted via searching in databases such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, Pub Med, and SID using English or Persian keywords, such as acrylamide and food. Results: Since acrylamide is found in food products, there have been several reports on the presence of acrylamide in fried and oven-cooked foods, which have led to worldwide concern. Acrylamide has been classified as a possible mutagenic and carcinogenic compound in humans. Moreo...

Research paper thumbnail of Investigating the effects of oryzatensin on gut microbiota growth using a novel quantitative standard curve-fitting method: an ex-vivo study

a Department of Food Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz Univ... more a Department of Food Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran b Student Research Committee, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran c Nutrition Research Center, Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences a b b b b Mahmood Alizadeh Sani, Aydin Aynehchi, Meisam Barati, Abed Ghavami, Elyas Nattagh Eshtivani, b b c Amin MokariYamchi, Elnaz Vaghef-Mehrabany, Mehrangiz Ebrahimi-Mameghani

Research paper thumbnail of Associations of Environmental Factors and Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency in Iran

Article type: Research Paper Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is a major health problem, which ... more Article type: Research Paper Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is a major health problem, which is unexpectedly prevalent in Iran. The ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun are considered to be the foremost source of vitamin D in humans. In contrast, several environmental factors could decrease UV transmission to the earth, thereby reducing vitamin D absorption. Considering that the key role of environmental factors in vitamin deficiency has been neglected, the present study aimed to investigate the associations between environmental factors (e.g., geographical and air pollution parameters) with the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Iran. Methods: The duration of the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency were extracted from the previous studies conducted in different cities in Iran, where vitamin D deficiency was reported. Afterwards, the environmental factors that were reported to affect sunlight transmission through the atmosphere were collected based on the place and time of vitamin...

Research paper thumbnail of Analysis and probabilistic health risk assessment of some trace elements contamination and sulphur dioxide residual in raisins

International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Functional biocompatible nanocomposite films consisting of selenium and zinc oxide nanoparticles embedded in gelatin/cellulose nanofiber matrices

International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2021

In recent decades, environmental concerns and increasing consumer demand for healthy and nutritio... more In recent decades, environmental concerns and increasing consumer demand for healthy and nutritious food products with prolonged shelf life have made the food packaging industry pay more attention to the preparation of multifunctional biodegradable packaging films based on biopolymers containing active components such as antioxidant and antimicrobial agents. In this study, bio-nanocomposite films were fabricated from gelatin (G) and cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), and different concentrations of zinc oxide (ZnO) and/or Selenium (Se) nanoparticles (NPs) by the casting method. The mechanical, barrier, optical, and structural (FTIR, XRD, and SEM) properties of the films were investigated along with their antibacterial and antioxidant features. The incorporation of ZnO and Se NPs improved the physicomechanical and water resistance of G/CNF films. In this regard, the maximum tensile strength value was obtained for the G/CNF containing 5% w/w ZnO NPs (G/CNF/ZnO3) and G/CNF containing 0.1% w/w Se NPs (G/CNF/Se2) films (~2.20-fold and ~2.13-fold higher than the G/CNF film, respectively). Also, G/CNF with 3% w/w ZnO NPs (G/CNF/ZnO2) film had the lowest water vapor permeability and water solubility among all films. Results of the disc diffusion assay showed a stronger antibacterial effect of ZnO NPs compared with Se NPs. The bacterial susceptibility to the antibacterial films was as follows: Listeria monocytogenes > Escherichia coli > Staphylococcus aureus > Pseudomonas fluorescens. The G/CNF films incorporated with Se nanoparticles possessed the higher property of scavenging free radicals in comparison films containing ZnO nanoparticles. Also, the combination of Se NPs and ZnO NPs enhanced the antioxidant effect of the films. In conclusion, gelatin-based edible films containing CNFs, ZnO NPs, and Se NPs can be used in the development of active food packaging products.

Research paper thumbnail of Multifunctional nanocomposite active packaging materials: Immobilization of quercetin, lactoferrin, and chitosan nanofiber particles in gelatin films

Food Hydrocolloids, 2021

Abstract The design and fabrication of multifunctional films from natural materials is a major fo... more Abstract The design and fabrication of multifunctional films from natural materials is a major focus of modern packaging research with the aim of creating smart, active, and/or biodegradable packaging. In this study, multifunctional films were created by embedding different kinds of functional nanoparticles into a gelatin-based film prepared by a casting method. The nanoparticles were prepared by crosslinking cationic chitosan nanofibers using anionic sodium tripolyphosphate ions. In some cases, quercetin, lactoferrin, or both were incorporated into these nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were mixed with the hot gelatin solution prior to casting. The appearance, light-screening, water vapor barrier, thermal, mechanical, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and biodegradability/composting characteristics of the nanoparticle-loaded films were then characterized. Dynamic light scattering showed that the size, polydispersity, and charge of the functional nanoparticles depended on their composition. The spectroscopic analysis identified the importance of electrostatic and hydrogen bonds in film formation. Incorporation of the functional nanoparticles into the gelatin films improved their optical, mechanical, barrier, and preservative properties. For instance, the incorporation of quercetin increased the ability of the films to screen UV-light, whereas the incorporation of both lactoferrin and quercetin increased the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the films. Finally, the films were shown to have good biodegradability/composting under environmental conditions, which is important for reducing the negative environmental impacts caused by synthetic packaging.

Research paper thumbnail of The prevalence of foodborne parasites in raw vegetables in Iran: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis

Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering, 2021

Foodborne parasites in raw vegetables could cause parasitic infections in humans. An effective ap... more Foodborne parasites in raw vegetables could cause parasitic infections in humans. An effective approach to the reduction of pathogenic microorganisms in vegetables involves identifying the main sources of contamination and the ecology of the involved microorganisms. This review aimed to evaluate the prevalence of foodborne parasites in raw vegetables in Iran. According to the reviewed studies, the prevalence rate of Ascaris spp., Giardia spp., Toxocara spp., Fasciola, Trichuris, Cryptosporidium, Dicrocoeliasis, Taenia spp., and Entamoeba histolytica was 6 % (95 % CI: 5–8 %), 6 % (95 % CI: 5–7 %), 6 % (95 % CI: 4–7 %), 2 % (95 % CI: 1–2 %), 1 % (95 % CI: 1–2 %), 10 % (95 % CI: 6–15 %), 2 % (95 % CI: 1–3 %), 5 % (95 % CI: 4–6 %), and 3 % (95 % CI: 2–4 %), respectively. According to the standard deviation map, Ilam province was one of the high-risk areas in terms of food-borne parasites in raw vegetables (3 SD < prevalence < 4 SD). Given the key role of raw vegetables in human parasitic contamination, governments must implement more stringent programs for effective wastewater treatment, preventing domestic and wild animals from entering farms, not using human and animal manure on farms, using ready-to-eat packaged vegetables, food safety training for households, implementation of GMP and HACCP in the factory vegetable packaging are required in this regard, especially in the high-risk areas of Iran, such as Ilam province.