Abstract: In this work ZnO nanoparticles were loaded in rice starch based films using an unique equilibration-cum-hydrothermal approach. The films have been characterized by XRD, SPR and SEM analysis. These films have shown excellent antibacterial action against model bacteria E.coli when investigated qualitatively by zone inhibition method. Films exhibit great potential to be used as packaging films to protect food stuff against microbial contaminants.

Keywords: Antimicrobial activity, Rice starch film, ZnO nanoparticles.