Effect of bees beeswax on gelatin properties extracted from common carp scale (Cyprinus carpio)

Gelatin is a unique colloidal protein that is used extensively in the food, pharmaceutical, medical and other industries. The aim of this study was to improve the properties of gelatin films produced from common carp scales (Cyprinus carpio) using beeswax. The extraction method of gelatin from common carp scales was alkaline treatment, acid treatment and thermal extraction with water. First, ash, moisture, protein and fat content of extracted gelatin was measured. The films were obtained from gelatin mixture and beeswax (containing treatments of 3.9 and 6.5% wax) and were prepared using solvent-mold method. Films evaluated for mechanical, physical, apparent and antimicrobial properties. The results showed that solubility, permeability to light and water vapor permeability was significantly decreased (p <0.05) compared to control sample (gelatin film without  beeswax sample) while water absorption , Light absorption, tensile strength and elongation at break of films showed a significant increase compared to the control (p <0.05). On the other hand, the color changes were not significant in the samples (p> 0.05). The results of X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy showed that beeswax distribute in gelatin completely. In addition, the results of microbial studies showed that the composition of gelatin and beeswax in both of samples compared with the control, had a significant antibacterial effect on the bacteria of Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli (p <0.05). Totally, beeswax can improve the properties of gelatin films produced from gelatin extracted from common carp scales.