Electrospun Nanofibre-Based Active Packaging for the Preservation of Fresh Vegetables in Nigerian Tropical Markets

Active packaging systems that incorporate antimicrobial and antioxidant agents offer a significant quality extension potential for fresh vegetables distributed in the high-temperature, high-humidity conditions of Nigerian tropical markets. Electrospun nanofibres provide a platform for controlled release of active agents with high surface area-to-volume ratio and tunable release kinetics. This study develops and characterises electrospun nanofibre-based active packaging incorporating natural antimicrobial agents from Nigerian botanical sources for the preservation of tomatoes and leafy vegetables distributed through Lagos and Ibadan markets, South West Nigeria. The theoretical contribution is a mass transfer model for the release of active compounds from electrospun nanofibres into the headspace and onto the food surface, coupling diffusion through the fibre matrix with partitioning into the surrounding atmosphere. Wall materials evaluated include polyvinyl alcohol blended with cassava starch, zein protein, and cellulose acetate. Active agents incorporated include carvacrol extracted from Nigerian thyme, eugenol from cloves, and trans-cinnamaldehyde from cinnamon. Nanofibre characterisation includes morphology by scanning electron microscopy, diameter distribution, mechanical properties by nanotensile testing, active compound loading and encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release kinetics, and antimicrobial activity. Application testing involved packaging fresh tomatoes and ugwu leaf (Telfairia occidentalis) in active nanofibre packaging compared to conventional low-density polyethylene controls under simulated market conditions. Results showed 5-day extension of shelf life for tomatoes and 3-day extension for ugwu leaf with acceptable sensory quality. The study contributes original active packaging technology with a mass transfer theoretical framework and Nigerian botanical active agents. Keywords: electrospun nanofibre, active packaging, antimicrobial, fresh vegetables, Nigeria