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Biosynthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles from Punica granatum (Pomegranate) Peel Waste and its Application to Inhibit Foodborne Pathogens

Summary

This research demonstrates how pomegranate peel waste can be transformed into valuable antimicrobial nanoparticles that could help fight food contamination. The study offers an environmentally friendly way to create natural food preservatives from fruit processing waste. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides a natural alternative to chemical food preservatives • Helps reduce food waste by utilizing pomegranate peels • Could lead to safer food storage and preservation methods • Offers an eco-friendly solution to combat food contamination • May help reduce the use of synthetic antimicrobial agents in food industry

Background

Food pathogenic bacteria and fungi are a common international health problem causing many severe diseases and deaths worldwide. Polyphenolics have shown promise in developing antimicrobial agents for the food industry. Pomegranate peel, which makes up about 50% of pomegranate fruit weight, is a significant source of polyphenolic compounds with potential antimicrobial properties.

Objective

This study aimed to synthesize and characterize silver nanoparticles using pomegranate peel extract (PPE-AgNPs) and evaluate their antimicrobial activity against eight foodborne pathogens. The research focused on developing an eco-friendly approach to create effective antimicrobial agents from food industry waste products.

Results

The synthesis of PPE-AgNPs was confirmed by color change from yellow to brown and UV absorption at 440 nm. The nanoparticles showed spherical shapes with a zeta potential of -20.1 mV. PPE-AgNPs demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against all tested strains, with B. subtilis showing highest sensitivity (IZD 4.5 cm) and R. oryzae showing highest resistance. GC-MS analysis revealed phenol (51.1%), isocitronellol (19.41%), and 1-Propanol, 2-(2-hydroxypropyl)- (16.05%) as major constituents.

Conclusion

The study successfully demonstrated a simple, eco-friendly biosynthesis of PPE-AgNPs using pomegranate peel extract as a reducing agent. The phytochemicals detected acted as effective reducing and capping agents. The nanoparticles showed improved antimicrobial activity, suggesting potential applications in addressing multi-drug resistant microorganisms.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.1038/s41598-023-46355-x
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