Bio-based and Nanostructured Hybrids for Green and Active Food Packaging

Abstract

Biopolymer-based food packaging is a rapidly growing market driven by the need for long-term global sustainability combined with technological innovations and better performing markets for consumers and businesses. The transition to a low-carbon economy should rely on the utilization of renewable resources and green manufacturing involving novel green technologies and bioprocessing to provide clean energy, green chemicals, biodegradable and safe products of high quality and functionality. Biopolymer nanostructures could upgrade the bio-based food packaging sector. The synergies of hybrid moieties tailor the thermal, mechanical and barrier properties of films, providing multifunctionality. This chapter includes a detailed overview of the state-of-the-art regarding the application of natural, bio-based and biodegradable polymeric materials in food packaging. It covers a wide range of promising biopolymers that are currently used for the formulation of innovative and green food packaging films. Strategies for film preparations are presented emphasizing current challenges and opportunities. The chapter includes the biopolymers used in active food packaging and blends with inorganic nanoparticles. The types and mechanisms of activity of the biofilms are presented and the role of the embedded nanoparticles is analyzed. This chapter may serve as a guide for advances in the design and optimization of new active bio-packaging in food technology.