Corn water barrier properties

The film-forming properties of corn zein have also been investigated in detail [2, 44-55]. Zein films are water-insoluble, relatively shiny and greaseproof, but they sometimes have unsuitable organoleptic properties (off-odour, chewiness and so on). Zein-based films and coatings improve food shelf life, via their high barrier properties (to water vapour or especially to oxygen (O2)), or their retention or controlled release properties of active additives on the food surface. These films have been successfully used to protect dry fruits and various parts of frozen or intermediate moisture foods. 

Corn S-Ch composite films Casting Physicochemical, water vapor barrier and mechanical properties Garcia et al., 2006... 

---