ANALYSIS OF BANANA (MUSA PARADISIACA L.) PSEUDOSTEM FIBRE AS A SUSTAINABLE MATERIAL FOR BREAST FEEDING PADS: A STUDY ON WATER ABSORPTION AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY

Breastfeeding mothers often experience milk leakage and discomfort, highlighting the need for innovative, sustainable and hygienic nursing pads. This study explores the potential of banana pseudostem fibre as a natural, eco-friendly material for nursing pads. The research involves the extraction, processing and characterization of banana pseudostem fibres, followed by the development of a novel nursing pad prototype. The water absorption and antibacterial properties of the banana pseudostem fibre were evaluated, showing a high-water absorption percentage (88.52%) and broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The results demonstrate the suitability of banana pseudostem fibre as a sustainable and hygienic material for nursing pads. The developed prototype offers improved comfort, support, and absorbency, minimizing the risk of bacterial growth and infection. This research contributes to the development of eco-friendly, sustainable, and hygienic nursing pads, addressing the needs of breastfeeding mothers while promoting environmental sustainability.