Abstract: Nano-ZnO/high density polyethylene (HDPE) composite film was prepared by the melt blending method. The properties of nanocomposite film were characterized to explore its preservative effect on cheese. Results indicated ZnO nanoparticles had a good dispersion in HDPE matrix. An improvement of mechanical and barrier properties of the composite film was achieved after adding nano-ZnO to HDPE resin. In addition, sensory quality, pH and bacterial growth of the cheese packaged by HDPE film and nano-ZnO/HDPE composite film were evaluated. The nano-composite film revealed good antibacterial preservative effect on cheese.

Key words: nano-ZnO, high density polyethylene (HDPE), cheese, antibacterial activity, preservation