Biodegradable packaging, such as edible coatings and films, is widely used because it is free
from synthetic substances and does not lead to environment pollution. Therefore, this industry
is continuously growing. This study aimed to prepare and characterize biodegradable films
loaded with nano kaolin. Semolina protein films were prepared and plasticized with sorbitol/
glycerol by the casting method. Nano kaolin with 0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% and 5% (w/w) was
added to the films before casting them. The films were dried at controlled conditions. The effects
of the addition of nanoparticles were measured on water absorption capacity (WAC), density,
ultraviolet transmittance, heat sealability, and film morphology. Results showed that the WAC
and density of the films decreased by increasing the nano kaolin concentration. By contrast, the
seal strength for the semolina film was increased by incorporating a low percentage of nano
kaolin. The X-ray diffraction curves of the semolina film incorporated with kaolin exhibited
broad reflection, thus indicating that the kaolin nanosize matches the transmission electron
microscopy images. In summary, nano kaolin incorporation enhanced the physicochemical
properties and heat sealability of semolina films, thereby indicating the potential application of
these bionanocomposites to food-product packaging.