Carboxymethylcellulose hybrid nanodispersions for edible coatings with potential anti-cancer properties

Curcumin loaded lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles dispersions were fabricated from carboxymethylcellulose, stearic acid, polyethylene glycol and sesame oil using emulsion solvent evaporation method for their possible application as edible coatings for fresh vegetables and fruits. They were characterized by FTIR and TEM analysis. In addition, anti-bacterial, blood compatibility, cytotoxicity and anticancer studies were also carried out. The prepared nanodispersions showed excellent mixed nanostructured morphology with an average size of 94.96 nm. The hybrid nanodispersions showed excellent blood compatibility, non-toxicity and antitumor activity. The synthesized nanoparticle dispersion was employed as an edible coating solution for fresh apples and tomatoes. The hybrid system coated vegetables and fruits shows minimal weight loss after 15 days of storage. Hence, the formulated hybrid nanostructures of CMC are promising as edible coating solution, in addition to possessing the properties to fight cancer.