Chitosan / essential oils biocomposites for suppressing the growth of Aspergillus parasiticus

Cinnamon, thyme, and eucalyptus essential oils encapsulated in chitosan at different concentrations of 125, 250, 500, and 1000 ppm were synthesised by ionotropic gelation, and their efficacy was analysed against Aspergillus parasiticus and aflatoxin production. These nanoparticles were characterised by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and transmission electronic microscope (TEM). The diameter, Z potential, and morphology of the essential oils encapsulated in chitosan were significantly affected by the addition of the essential oils. Radial growth and spore germination were reduced during the first 24 h of incubation, and no effects were detected on aflatoxin production. The present work revealed that cinnamon and thyme essential oils encapsulated in chitosan could delay the first stage of A. parasiticus spore germination.