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Using Zea Mays Biopolymer Film To Prolong The Shelf-Life of Pyrus Fruit
Using Zea Mays Biopolymer Film To Prolong The Shelf-Life of Pyrus Fruit
Aguilar, Kristianne
Cruz, Anna
Gabuyo, Feyanne
Maxilom, Alyanna
Misajon, Rhenzo
Abstract
The paper is primarily concerned with prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit
by the utilization of Zea mays biopolymer film. This Zea mays biopolymer film is an economical
and manageable technique for extending the shelf-life with preserving quality of fruits and
vegetable. Notably, this study aims to know the effectivity of Zea mays biopolymer film in
prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit in terms of physical condition and the number of days
it extends with Zea mays biopolymer film. Furthermore, the Zea mays biopolymer film was
produce from the extraction of starch in the Zea mays including the integration of 45ml of water,
7.5ml of acetic acid, and 5ml of glycerin. Subsequently, the mixture was boiled using the stove
for 3 minutes and was poured into a pan to obtain an even covering. The film was dried after
three (3) days at room temperature. Thereafter, it was coated to the Pyrus fruit and performed the
direct method to determine the accurate estimation of the time it takes for before the Pyrus fruit
to deteriorate. As a result, the Zea mays is an effective biopolymer film since contains high
amylose which can affect the functionality of the film and achieves good biopolymer film
quality. For this reason, Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film reduces indications of
deterioration and was able to extend the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit. Hence, due to the overall
findings, Zea mays biopolymer film is effective in prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit.
1. INTRODUCTION
Biodegradable polymers are produced from renewable sources and extracted from
biomass that are synthesized from bio-derived monomers and produced from microorganisms.
Biodegradable polymers can be easily degrade in the environment and also resemble the
the problems in shortage of fossil fuel, health hazards, and environmental issues as possessed by
Food spoilage is one of the every human beings concern that affects not only the
people but including the entire economy (Higuera, 2019). However, as stated by Fraser (2012),
food spoilage can be defined as a disagreeable change in a food's normal state. Such changes can
be detected by smell, taste, touch, or sight. These changes are due to a number of reasons
including air and oxygen, moisture, light, microbial growth, and temperature.
In compliance with [ CITATION MaX08 \l 13321 ], starch is viewed as one of the
most encouraging materials to use in biodegradable plastics. Similarly, Zea mays has been
known as one of the comestible that has a high starch content among any other vegetables. The
utility of films based on starch depends on the ratio of amylose to amylopectin. High amylose
content produces elastic films while high amylopectin starch leads to films exhibiting poor
mechanical properties. (Garcia et. al, 2017). In line with this, edible films can help to improve
the quality of food products in terms of protection whether physical, chemical and spoilage
Pyrus is a fruit known as Pear that is rich in numerous nutrients along with
antioxidants, flavonoids and dietary fiber. It shelf-life depends on how a pear was picked and
stored. In addition, a normal skin of a pear ranges from color yellow to brown, green or red.
Apart from that, a pear placed on the counter would last for about 3-4 days, when it is cooled it
would last for about 5-12 days and a pear that is freshly cut would last for a day (Ware, M.,
2018).
Numerous studies have discussed the role of biopolymer film to the fruits and
vegetables and even in the environment. However, there has not been a lot of scrutiny regarding
Zea mays biopolymer film in prolonging the shelf life specifically on Pyrus fruit. The utilization
of biopolymer film is an economical and manageable technique for extending the shelf life with
preserving quality of fruits and vegetable. Thus, this study addresses the growing concerns
regarding food spoilage and pollution possessed by plastic packages. The researchers aim to
The research paper aims to determine the effectiveness of the Zea mays
biopolymer film in prolonging the shelf-life of Pyrus fruit. This study sought to answer the
following questions:
1. How does the Zea mays biopolymer film prolong the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit?
2. How effective is Zea mays biopolymer film in prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit in
3. How long can the Zea mays biopolymer film prolong the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit?
i. Null Hypothesis: Zea Mays biopolymer film is not effective in prolonging the
ii. Alternative Hypothesis: Zea Mays biopolymer film is effective in prolonging the
The study sought to benefit the following by the end of this study:
To the future researchers, this study will serve as a reference to their future study. The results
and interpretation that was generated by the researchers can guide them to discover more data
To the environment, this study will help the environment to restore and prevent damages
caused by the use of conventional polymers. Moreover, starch based polymers produces less
waste and the depletion of greenhouse gasses.
To the corporation of the same field, this study will provide ideas to the corporation about the
effectiveness of Zea mays biopolymer film to prolong the shelf-life of Pyrus fruit that can affect
the buying behavior of the customers. This study will help the corporation to understand the
The general intent of this study is to test the viability of utilizing Zea mays
biopolymer film in extending the life span mainly of Pyrus fruit. The researchers yearn to only
identify the effectiveness of Zea mays biopolymer films in terms of prolonging the life duration
specifically on Pyrus fruit. Moreover, the researchers will gather the primary data by the means
of experimentation and testing. Hence, this study will not cover other related topics of the
research paper.
Decant the water - gradually pours the substance to another container to separate the sediments.
Direct Method - real-time study to monitor the products evolution over time.
Firmness - quality of being solid.
Pyriform - pear-shaped.
Shelf-life - length of time a product can be stored and remain acceptable for use.
2. LITERATURE REVIEW
This section incorporated reviews of literature and studies with regards to the use
of natural polymer in maintaining the quality of the fruit. Hence, this literature review will cover
reviews mostly concerning with biopolymer film and other related topics that will support the
study. Villalobos, Ortiz-Sánchez, Jovar-Sánchez & Huiconchea (2016), concluded that, the
utilization of biopolymers were significant alternatives for unsustainable products because of its
biodegradability and its wide range application to be able to restore the damaged environment
On the authority of Alabi, A. O., Ologbnjaye, K. I., Awosolu, O., and Alalade, O.
E. (2019), in the last 6 decades, about 6.3 billion of plastics have been produced worldwide, 9%
and 12% of which have been recycled and burned. The consistent demand of plastic products
leads to environmental pollution. Furthermore, varieties of plastics were used in the production
of multiple products medical devices, food packaging, and water bottles contains chemicals such
improper disposal of plastic can also formed an issue on the marine life, human and
environment. In like manner, toxic chemicals found in plastic products may lead in health
hazards if exposed to heat and inhaled by the public. Plastics may appear to be harmless but the
effects of it may lead to multiple risk whether in health or environment. Realistic political action
should be done to help fight the environmental pollution. Policies about chemical classification
Biodegradable polymers are produced from renewable sources and extracted from
biomass that are synthesized from bio-derived monomers and produced from microorganisms.
Biodegradable polymers can also resemble the properties of conventional polymers (Yadav et al.,
widely used in food and non-food applications from crops such as maize, potatoes, tapioca, rice
and wheat.
Nevertheless, the utilization of biofilm is an economical and manageable
technique for extending the shelf life with preserving quality of fruits and vegetable (Yadav et
al., 2018). Moreover, edible films based on fruits and vegetables possesses health‐promoting
functionalities that may also be developed, such as probiotic or prebiotic films, increasing their
market appeal as a healthy food components with desirable sensory properties (Espitia et al.,
2016).
friendly alternative to petroleum-based polymers due to the availability, low cost, and renewable
raw materials and agro-industrial waste (biomass) usage while maintaining the product quality.
Polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids are the primarily components used for biopolymer
production. Additionally, for the biopolymer material properties to enhance, it can be laminated
or formed as composites and can be edible or active with strong antioxidant and antimicrobial
properties.
Various studies have been conducted with the objective of expanding successful
and to manufacture bio-based materials. The text intends to analyze and evaluate the potential of
biopolymer packaging material application for packing dairy, meat, fruits, and vegetable
products (Popovic, S. Z., Lazic, V. L., Hromis, N. V., Suput, D. Z., Bulut, S. N., 2018).
2.2 Related Studies
This article sought to provide all of the information and procedures needed for
testing the fruits and vegetables in determining the spoilage of the product progression during
storage. This kind of testing method was constructed to determine the effect of household
refrigeration storage on the shelf-life of fruits and vegetables. This article began with preparation
of the subjects prior in the said procedure. Additionally, data collection procedures used
throughout the experiments were analyzed and specified using a checklist for visually identifying
physical condition of “spoilage” and “freshness” are developed. Systematic procedures includes
the spoilage testing, plating process, freshness testing, molecular testing, water loss, photo
documentation, color changes, texture and data tabulation and summary. This approach provides
standard methods for sampling and pre-analytical preparation and reasonable collection of data
associated with organoleptic and microbial spoilage (Lineberry, K. R., Pate, M. & Brehm-
in an emerging field. Edible coating is one of the promising treatments that extend the market
life of lively respiring for the postharvest horticultural. When the edible coating is applied on the
plantation and mushrooms, it extended the shelf life, marketability and postharvest quality.
Edible coating does not also leave any post application residues and thus makes the product
coating on both solely and in combination with other postharvest treatments and natural
preservatives for retention of postharvest quality with the minimized postharvest loss. Hence,
this review sought to define detailed information on the mechanism, formulation and application
of edible coating technology on horticultural commodities (Prasad, K., Guarav, A. K., Preethi, &
According to Suput, D. Z., Lazic, V. L., Popovic, S. Z., & Hromis, N. M., (2014),
the use of edible films and coatings as renewable packaging has became of a new trend in the
food industry. Functions of edible films and coatings are similar to the synthetic packaging.
Moreover, another benefit from this food packaging is their eco-friendly reputation because it is
produced from edible biopolymers, unlike the other packaging materials that are made from non-
renewable energy sources. Modification to the film-forming solutions can also be included in
order to give improvements in protection against microbial deterioration. The bio-edible films
have the potential to reduce traditional plastic packaging but to do so the product must perform
In proportion to Rawat, S. (2015), food spoilage has been known as “any sensory
change" that includes tactile, visual, olfactory or flavor that is considered to be inappropriate to
the consumers and market. Spoilage may exist in any stages of the food specifically on physical
damage, natural enzymes, and microbial contaminations. Additionally, ripening weakens the cell
walls because of enzymes that caused the fruits to lessen its resistance to contaminations. In
India, the fruits and vegetables products are more likely to deterioration because their
geographical features. The most common pathogens causing deterioration in vegetables and
fruits are fungi such as Alternaria, Diplodia, Monilinia,Rhizopus, Pencillium, and such. Among
these bacteria, Ervinia, Pseudomonas, and such tends to generate large-scale damage.
Food packaging system have been widely used for its efficiency and effectiveness
related in containment, information, and marketing. One of its significant functions is to protect
the food from deteriorating agents, minimizing exposure to spoilage factors, avoiding losses of
desirable compounds and to prolong the shelf-life of the food. In line with this, the use of food‐
grade biomacromolecules in fruits and vegetables provides an edible packaging with suitable
C. G. et al., 2017).
and biodegradable. Polysaccharides and polypeptides address those requirements and have good
film‐forming properties. Most of the proteins and carbohydrates are edible, and can be used as
The presence of edible films and coatings in fruit and vegetable purees makes
them more attractive to consumers due to the additional sensory and nutritional appeal.
Moreover, edible films based on fruits and vegetables possesses health‐promoting functionalities
that may also be developed, such as probiotic or prebiotic films, increasing their market appeal
According to Gibson & Benson (2002), Maize (Zea mays L.; Poaceae family) is
alternative energy source. Additionally, as stated on the study made by Bernhardt, Ponce,
Basanta, Stortz, & Rojas (2019), Zea mays truly is a potential source of useful biopolymers.
enormous environmental problem that has to be reduce and eliminated. In contrast, the possible
solution may depend on the use of biopolymers derived from polysaccharides. Furthermore, the
use of starch in biodegradable plastics is viewed as one of the most encouraging components
(Ma, Chang, Yu, & Stumborg, 2009). On the other hand, Zea mays had consistently been known
as one of only a handful couple of sustenances that are abundant in starch. Hence, the fact that it
also has the highest starch content among any other vegetables that can give up to 72 to 73
amylopectin. High amylose content produces elastic films whereas high amylopectin starch leads
including acetylation and oxidation may be used to improve edible films properties (Garcia et. al,
2017).
2.3 Synthesis
manufacturing industries because of its performance and ease in production. However, the high
percentage of plastic consumption has created a serious problem in the environment because of
their resistance to biodegradation (Yadav et al., 2018). Edible films or coatings are known in
prolonging the lives of fruits and vegetables. There were also different starches that can be used
with different viscosity and some starches can have tensile strength and some have low tensile
(Amaral, et al., n.d). In addition, edible coatings prolong the life of fruits by providing a partial
barrier to moisture, oxygen, and carbon dioxide (Andrade, R. D., Skurtys, O., & Osorio, F. A.
2012).
There were different kinds of bacteria in fruits and vegetables that caused it to
spoil. However, there were some ways in order to prolong the shelf-life of the fruit including the
usage of biodegradable polymers produced from renewable sources. This kind of polymers can
able to protect the product against microbial deterioration, maintains the product quality, has
antioxidant properties and even perform multiple functions similar to conventional polymers.
Edible coating helps the horticultural products to extend its shelf-life after being harvested. It
affects the fruits in terms of its physical, physiological, biochemical properties. Additionally,
carbohydrates and proteins helps the film to form a good quality, adds sensory and nutritional
friendly alternative to conventional polymers for it is produced from renewable raw materials
and maintains the product quality. Furthermore, many studies have discuss the role, advantages,
development, application of biopolymer film to the fruits and vegetables and even in the
environment. However, there has not been a lot of recognition on how does Zea mays
biopolymer film prolong the shelf-life specifically on Pyrus fruit. Nevertheless, the researcher
aims to address concerns regarding environmental impact of plastic production, fruit spoilage,
Zea mays
Biopolymer film
Coating Method Direct Method
Making
Pyrus fruit by the utilization of Zea mays biopolymer film. This study sought to extends the
duration of shelf life of the Pyrus fruit, forms edible composite films, minimize the exposure to
spoilage factors, and maintains the Pyrus fruit quality. Likewise, to be able to conduct the study
the researchers will perform the: Zea mays biopolymer making, coating method, and direct
method. Withal, Zea mays-based biopolymer film has a greater potential as an alternative to
conventional polymer.
Hence, the figure shows how the researchers will present and interpret the data
wherein the researchers will address the statement of the problem and establish stronger evidence
3. METHODOLOGY
effectivity of Zea mays biopolymer film in prolonging the shelf-life of Pyrus fruit. This research
design involves the manipulation of independent variable wherein the Zea mays biopolymer film
and the dependent variable in which the Pyrus fruit to determine the effectivity of Zea mays
biopolymer film in prolonging the shelf-life of Pyrus fruit. Also, the researchers take control on
how does the Zea mays biopolymer film was used in the study by determining its attribution to
the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit. Moreover, Scales and Direct method were also used throughout
the experiment to determine the data associated in the study. The data gathered from the
This study mainly focuses on prolonging the shelf-life of Pyrus fruit with the use
of Zea mays biopolymer film. Additionally, the researchers used a purposive sampling wherein
the participants were selected based on predetermined criteria related to the topic. Hence, the
participant of the study includes a maximum of two (2) Pyrus fruit that was purchased at any
supermarket offering the product. In structure, the post-harvest Pyrus fruit possess a bell or
“pyriform” shape that is around 5-6 inches long, and weighs about 200g. Moreover, the shelf of
the Pyrus fruit was very thin and can be seen as green, red-orange or yellow-orange in color.
The researchers collected the data on how long does the Pyrus fruit prolong its
shelf-life before deterioration by using scales and direct method. This method involves observing
the Pyrus fruit under intervals of time until it reaches the deterioration state. The researchers
conducted this experiment at one of the available place from the member of the group in the
Direct Method was used in determining the changes within the shelf life of the
Pyrus fruit wherein it conducts a real-time investigation or observation that comprises of storing
away the Pyrus fruit, with and without the Zea mays biopolymer film under the same conditions
of temperature to monitor the progress or changes within the fruit in regular intervals of time.
The advantages of Direct Method was it makes an exact estimation of time it takes before the
Pyrus fruit to deteriorate and shows the changes among the physical condition of the Pyrus fruit
including the odor, color, texture, firmness, and bruised spot. Similarly, the researchers provided
a scale wherein number 1 indicates minimal changes while number 5 indicates abundant
changes. Withal, this scale was mainly for every category of physical condition including the
odor, color, texture, firmness, and bruised spot that was used to categorize variables to determine
its appropriateness in a certain criteria. Every fixed number in the scale corresponds to the
description stated in the table. Thus, the said instrument provides a reliable source of data for the
outcome of the study. The following table was the scale used to categorize each physical
condition:
Based on the table 1: Odor of Pyrus fruit, scale number 1 or null was defined as
no odor, scale number 2 or minor was defined as very faint, scale number 3 or moderate was
defined as faint, scale number 4 or great was defined as strong, and scale number 5 or immense
Corresponding to the table 2: Color of Pyrus fruit, scale number 1 or null was
defined as light yellow, scale number 2 or minor was defined as yellow, scale number 3 or
moderate was defined as light brown, scale number 4 or great was defined as brown, and scale
As stated in the table 3: Texture of Pyrus fruit, scale number 1 or null was defined
as very smooth, scale number 2 or minor was defined as smooth, scale number 3 or moderate
was defined as sticky, scale number 4 or great was defined as gritty, and scale number 5 or
In relation to the table 4: Firmness of Pyrus fruit, scale number 1 or null was
defined as very firm, scale number 2 or minor was defined as lightly firm, scale number 3 or
moderate was defined as medium, scale number 4 or great was defined as lightly soft, and scale
According to the table 5: Bruised spot of Pyrus fruit, scale number 1 or null was
defined as few bruised spots, rarely noticeable, scale number 2 or minor was defined as little
bruised spots on some parts, scale number 3 or moderate was defined as light bruised spots, scale
number 4 or great was defined as large bruised spots, and scale number 5 or immense was
Table 6. Effectiveness Scale of Zea mays Biopolymer Film in Prolonging the Shelf-life of
Pyrus Fruit
Prolonging the Shelf-life of Pyrus Fruit, scale number 1 or null was defined as does not prolong
the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit, scale number 2 or minimal was defined as generally not notice,
but recorded, scale number 3 or minor was defined as prolongs the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit on
a very short period of time (1 hr. – 4 hrs.), scale number 4 or light was defined as prolongs the
shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit on a short period of time (5 hrs – 9 hrs ), scale number 5 or moderate
was defined as prolongs the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit on an average period of time (10 hrs. –
15 hrs.), scale number 6 or strong was defined as prolongs the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit on an
average period of time (16 hrs. – 19 hrs.), scale number 7 or major was defined as prolongs the
shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit on an average period of time (20 hrs. – 23hrs.), scale number 8 or
great was defined as prolongs the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit on an average period of time (1 day
– 2 days), scale number 9 or tremendous was defined as prolongs the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit
on a long period of time (3 days – 4 days) and scale number 10 or immense was defined as
prolongs the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit on a very long period of time (5 days – 6 days).
3.4 Data-gathering Procedure
The researchers will produce Zea mays biopolymer film by conducting the
following methods:
In making the biopolymer film, the researchers obtained 280g of Zea mays grain
with 280ml of distilled water to the blender grinding the Zea mays grains.
A B
Picture A shows the Zea mays grains was being weighted by 280g using a weighing
C D
Picture A presents the 280g of Zea mays grains that was being placed into the
blender while, Picture D presents the 280ml of Distilled water that was poured into the blender
along with the grains.
Afterwards, the researchers poured the liquid off through the strainer into the
container, leaving the Zea mays behind the strainer and repeated the same procedure twice.
A B
Picture A presents the liquid obtained from the grinded Zea mays grains that was
strained through a strainer leaving the solid grains behind while, Picture B presents the same
A B
Picture A shows that the researchers waited for the starch to set at the bottom
before decanting the water while, picture B shows the water that was then drained.
Picture C presents the obtained starch from the Zea mays grains.
Figure 4: Extracting the Final Starch from the Zea mays grains
After extracting the starch, the researchers poured a tablespoon of Zea mays
starch, 45ml of water, 7.5ml of acetic acid, and 5ml of glycerin into the cup.
A B
Picture A shows the tablespoon of Zea mays starch obtained from the grains that
was placed in a cup while, Picture B shows the 45 ml of water that was then poured into the cup
C D
Picture C presents the 7.5 ml of acetic acid that was poured into the cup while,
Picture D presents the 5 ml of glycerin that was then placed into the cup.
Subsequently, the researchers boiled the mixture using the stove for 3 minutes.
Picture A shows the mixture that was being boiled using a stove for exactly 3
minutes while, Picture B shows that the mixture was then poured into a pan inorder to obtain an
even covering.
This approach takes one (1) to three (3) days at room temperature before the Zea
mays biopolymer film to dry. In addition, the researchers used Coating Method in applying the
film where the Pyrus fruit was covered by Zea mays biopolymer film that provides surface
Picture A presents that the Pyrus fruit was being covered by Zea mays biopolymer
accurate estimation of the time it takes before the Pyrus fruit to deteriorate by monitoring the
changes within the fruit over time. This type of method was conducted in a real-time
investigation or observation for the Pyrus fruit, with and without the Zea mays biopolymer film
under the same conditions of temperature to monitor the progress or changes among the physical
condition including: odor, color, texture, firmness, and bruised spot. Hence, the results were
interpreted using a Scale wherein it was used to categorize variables to determine its
appropriateness in a certain criteria and to identify the description that the variable satisfies.
Similarly, number 1 in the scale indicates minimal changes while number 5 indicates abundant
changes. Withal, this scale was mainly for every category of physical condition including the
odor, color, texture, firmness, and bruised spot. The following were the description for every
Odor of Pyrus fruit, scale number 1 or null was defined as no odor, scale number
2 or minor was defined as very faint, scale number 3 or moderate was defined as faint, scale
number 4 or great was defined as strong, and scale number 5 or immense was defined as very
strong.
Color of Pyrus fruit, scale number 1 or null was defined as light yellow, scale
number 2 or minor was defined as yellow, scale number 3 or moderate was defined as light
brown, scale number 4 or great was defined as brown, and scale number 5 or immense was
defined as black.
Texture of Pyrus fruit, scale number 1 or null was defined as very smooth, scale
number 2 or minor was defined as smooth, scale number 3 or moderate was defined as sticky,
scale number 4 or great was defined as gritty, and scale number 5 or immense was defined as
rough.
Firmness of Pyrus fruit, scale number 1 or null was defined as very firm, scale
number 2 or minor was defined as lightly firm, scale number 3 or moderate was defined as
medium, scale number 4 or great was defined as lightly soft, and scale number 5 or immense was
Bruised spot of Pyrus fruit, scale number 1 or null was defined as few bruised
spots, rarely noticeable, scale number 2 or minor was defined as little bruised spots on some
parts, scale number 3 or moderate was defined as light bruised spots, scale number 4 or great was
defined as large bruised spots, and scale number 5 or immense was defined as large bruised
The Unequal Variance (Welch) T-test was used to determine whether the Zea
mays biopolymer film was effective or not in prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit. This
specifies whether there was a statistically significant difference between the means in two
unrelated groups. Similarly, it helps to ascertain if the null hypothesis wherein the Zea Mays film
is not an effective biopolymer in prolonging the shelf-life of a Pyrus fruit will be rejected or
accept the alternative hypothesis comprising the Zea Mays film is an effective biopolymer in
prolonging the shelf life of a Pyrus fruit. Furthermore, this data analysis helps the researchers to
evaluate and establish data in order to address the research problems and research objectives.
This chapter incorporates presentation of findings and data analysis regarding Zea
4.1 Presentation
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
D ay 1 D ay 2 Day 3 D ay 4 D ay 5 D ay 6 Day 7 D ay 8 Day 9 D ay 1 0 D ay 1 1 D ay 1 2
already a faint odor on the 6 th day to 12th day of its observation. While, the Pyrus fruit with the
Zea mays biopolymer film remained the odor of the fruit until the 7th day of its observation then,
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
D ay 1 Day 2 D ay 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 D ay 8 D ay 9 D ay 1 0 D ay 1 1 D ay 1 2
This table shows that, the Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film remained
light yellow until the last day of its observation. While, the Pyrus fruit without Zea mays
biopolymer film becomes yellow on the 5th day to 9th day of its observation then, light brown
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 1 0 Day 1 1 Day 1 2
This table shows that, the texture of the Pyrus fruit with the Zea mays biopolymer
film remained very smooth until the 10th day of its observation. While, the Pyrus fruit without
Zea mays biopolymer film becomes sticky on its 11th to 12th day of its observation.
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
D ay 1 D ay 2 D ay 3 D ay 4 D ay 5 D ay 6 D ay 7 D ay 8 Day 9 Day 1 0 Day 1 1 Day 1 2
very firm until the 9th day of kits observation compared to the Pyrus fruit without Zea mays
biopolymer film that only lasted very firm until the 7th day of its observation.
0
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 D ay 6 D ay 7 D ay 8 D ay 9 D ay 1 0 D ay 1 1 D ay 1 2
This table shows that, the Pyrus fruit without Zea mays biopolymer film was able
to preserve the little bruised spots from worsening until the 7 th day of its observation. While, the
Pyrus fruit without Zea mays biopolymer film constantly changed from having a few bruised
Figure 12. Effectiveness of Zea mays biopolymer film in Prolonging the shelf-life of the
Pyrus Fruit
Based on the table shown above, the Pyrus fruit with the Zea mays biopolymer
film started from null (1) on the day 1 to day 3 to light (4) on the 5 th day then moderate (5) on the
6th day of its observation. In the 7th day to 8th day it shows a scale of 6 or strong afterwards, the
scale of 7 or major on the 9th day to 10th day then becomes great (8) from 11th day to 12th day of
its observation. However, the Pyrus fruit without the Zea mays biopolymer film was passively
4.2 Analysis
Corresponding to the results, the color of the Pyrus fruit without Zea mays
biopolymer change from light yellow to light brown that indicates that it shows a sign of
deterioration while, the Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film was able to preserve on an
average period of time. In terms of texture, Pyrus fruit without Zea mays biopolymer film
becomes sticky unlike in Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film that has a smooth texture,
this indicates that it is close from being rotten. In terms of firmness, Pyrus fruit without Zea
mays biopolymer film becomes lightly soft unlike in Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film
that is lightly firm. This approach indicates that Zea mays biopolymer film was able to preserve
its original form since the day it was bought. In terms of bruised spot, Pyrus fruit without Zea
mays biopolymer film possessed large bruised that was classified as already rotten unlike in
Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film that has large bruised spot but not totally rotten.
Thus, bruised spots changes were also noticeable, since the day it was bought there were already
existing bruised spots, but these spots were prevented from worsening by putting the biopolymer
film.
determine whether there is a significant difference between the means of two unrelated groups.
The researchers used Microsoft Excel that helps in determining other statistical data as well as p-
value in which it is essential in order to identify whether to accept or reject the null hypothesis.
The data from the categories of odor, color, texture, firmness and bruised spots, with and without
the Zea mays biopolymer film were inserted in the Microsoft Excel. Likewise, two groups were
separately identified particularly the Pyrus fruit with the Zea mays biopoymer film and Pyrus
In terms of odor, Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film was effective in
prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit since the p-value was less than the alpha (0.05).
In terms of color, Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film was effective in
prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit since the p-value was less than the alpha (0.05).
In terms of texture, Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film was effective in
prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit since the p-value was less than the alpha (0.05).
In terms of firmness, Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film was effective in
prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit since the p-value was less than the alpha (0.05).
In terms of bruised spot, Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film was effective
in prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit since the p-value was less than the alpha (0.05).
Table 13: Effectiveness of Zea mays Biopolymer Film in Prolonging the Shelf-life of the
Pyrus Fruit
of the Pyrus fruit, the Pyrus fruit with Zea mays biopolymer film was effective in prolonging the
shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit since the p-value was less than the alpha (0.05). Nevertheless, reject
null hypothesis.
In totality, reject the null hypothesis which means Zea mays biopolymer film is
4.3 Interpretation
As reflected to the results that have been gathered, the following were the
statement of the problem that was made to be interpreted after the experiment; (a) how does the
Zea mays biopolymer film prolong the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit? (b) how effective is Zea
mays biopolymer film in prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit in terms of physical
condition? (c) how long can the Zea mays biopolymer film prolong the shelf-life of the Pyrus
fruit? Furthermore, it was shown that Zea mays biopolymer film was effective in prolonging the
shelf-life of Pyrus fruit since it established changes within the physical condition unlike in Pyrus
fruit without Zea mays biopolymer film. This finding was significantly related in the study of
Prasad, K., Guarav, A. K., Preethi, & Neha, P., (2018), biopolymer film has positively affects the
ethylene evolution rate), and biochemical attributes (cell wall degrading enzymes) of
horticultural commodities. In line with this, the changes or damages in physical condition of a
fruit can be possibly classified as a food spoilage. It was then mentioned in the study of Rawat,
S. (2015), food spoilage is “any sensory change" that includes tactile, visual, olfactory or flavor
due to the inability of the cell wall that caused the fruits to lessen its resistance to
contaminations.
The application of Zea mays biopolymer film reduces the microbial factor that can
affects the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit. This finding also validates the findings of Otoni, C. G. et
al., (2017), edible coatings provides a significant function that is to protect the food from
compounds and to prolong the shelf-life of the food. Similarly, when the coating is applied on
the harvested horticultural commodities such as fruits and vegetables, it extended the shelf-life,
marketability and minimized postharvest loss. Nevertheless, this finding could be attributed to
the fact that it extends the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit, forms edible composite films, minimize
the exposure to spoilage factors, and maintains the Pyrus fruit quality.
5. CONCLUSION
regarding the utilization of Zea mays biopolymer film in prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus
fruit.
5.1 Conclusion
This study was conducted for the sole purpose of testing the effectiveness of using
Zea mays biopolymer film in prolonging the shelf life of the Pyrus fruit. Quasi-experimental
research design was used and Direct method was also utilized as the instrument for collecting
data. The Pyrus fruit served as the participant which was selected through purposive sampling.
The experiment was directed from August 27, 2019 to September 12, 2019.
In dependence upon the data from the previous chapter, the following findings of
Zea mays is an effective source of biopolymer film because the usage of starch in
has the highest starch content among any other vegetable and it also contains high amylose that
helps in producing an elastic film and affects the functionality and quality of the film.
Furthermore, the chemical modifications of starch in Zea mays including acetylation and
oxidation are one of the components that enhance the film. Hence, Zea mays biopolymer film
prolongs the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit by providing a partial barrier to moisture, oxygen, and
carbon dioxide. It also provides resistance from any contaminations and even protection from
In relation to the data gathered during experimentation, Zea mays biopolymer film
shows to be effective in prolonging the shelf-life of the Pyrus fruit because it provides barrier
from the exposure to any deteriorating factors that maintain the physical condition of the Pyrus
fruit including the odor of the Pyrus fruit that shows a faint odor because of the scent of the Zea
mays biopolymer film. Withal, other physical appearance such as the color, texture, firmness and
bruised spot maintained unlike with Pyrus fruit without Zea mays biopolymer film since, the film
attributes to the physical, physiological, and biochemical condition of the fruit. Thus, it avoids
further losses of desirable components in able to maintain the quality of the product.
Furthermore, the Zea mays biopolymer film was able to lengthen the shelf-life of
the Pyrus fruit for an average period of time, extending the shelf-life for 2 days compared to the
Pyrus fruit without biopolymer film that becomes completely rotten after 10 days.
Generally, based on the concluded data it indicates that the utilization of Zea
mays biopolymer film is effective in prolonging the shelf life of the Pyrus fruit. Nevertheless,
5.2 Recommendation
Based on the findings and conclusion of the study, here are the several recommendations to be
considered:
1. The researchers recommend that the process of experimentation shall be done a month or
more to establish a much accurate results or observation and to have an additional time in
2. The researchers recommends to be careful in doing the experimentation for there might
be some reaction from the subjects that are not stated in the procedures including the
of Zea mays biopolymer film that prolong the shelf-life of a fruit or vegetable.
4. Future researchers shall perform the experiment repeatedly to achieve the desired
outcome.
6. This type study shall be performed in a fine laboratory with a good and complete
7. Stores may use Zea mays biopolymer film as an alternative to plastic container in able to
8. Consumers should be encouraged to purchase a product with a Zea mays biopolymer film
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A PPENDICES
Gant Chart
Group # 3
STEM - 1803
Leader:
Aguilar, Kristianne V.
Members:
Misajon, Rhenzo T.
08/22/2019 PERMITS
09/14/2019 CONCLUSION
09/14/2019 RECOMMENDATION
WEEK 3
09/15/2019 ABSTRACT
09/15/2019 REFERENCES