Micro-encapsulation of citral using edible γ-cyclodextrin metal organic framework

Stabilization of reactive organic species by encapsulation in self-assembly supramolecules is a popular technique. Citral, a common antimicrobial and flavor compound, is highly sensitive to oxidation, especially when exposed to elevated temperature and light. In this study we evaluated the encapsulation efficiency of citral in cyclodextrin-metal organic framework (CDMOF) to prevent oxidation, provide chemical stability, and control the release of citral for various industrial applications including packaging. Computational simulations indicated the formation of stable inclusion complex between CDMOF and citral with binding energy of the IC approximately − 3.89 kcal mol⁻¹. We observed around 11.83% w/w inclusion of citral in CDMOF as measured using TGA. Host–guest interactions between CDMOF and citral were further elucidated using FTIR, DSC, and SEM. Encapsulation of CDMOF in citral offers higher temperature stability, and extended-release kinetics.