Literature Review: Potensi Kulit Buah Naga sebagai Bahan Baku Edible Film dalam Aplikasi Pengemasan Makanan

Abstract

Dragon fruit peel (Hylocereus spp.) is an abundant agro-industrial byproduct rich in pectin, phenolic compounds, and natural pigments, making it a promising raw material for developing active edible films. However, a comprehensive evaluation of its potential as an active packaging material is still limited. This study aimed to systematically review extraction methods for obtaining pectin from dragon fruit peel and to identify the most suitable formulation for producing high-performance active edible films. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 protocol, focusing on pectin extraction efficiency, physicochemical characteristics, and film performance. In addition, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was applied to determine the recommended extraction method and edible film formulation based on mechanical, barrier, thermal, and bioactive properties. Results show that ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) provides the highest pectin yield (up to 31.4%) while maintaining favorable structural attributes such as galacturonic acid content and an adequate degree of esterification, making it suitable for film formation. Among the reviewed formulations, the combination of pectin with sodium alginate, glycerol, and MgO nanoparticles exhibited superior performance, with excellent tensile strength, elongation, thermal stability, and antioxidant activity. These findings demonstrate that dragon fruit peel is a viable and sustainable source of pectin for active edible film applications. Furthermore, the study highlights the need for more extensive bioactivity assessments, particularly antimicrobial testing, to validate its functional potential in food packaging systems. Overall, dragon fruit peel–based active edible films represent a promising strategy for reducing plastic waste while enhancing food preservation.