Eco-friendly biodegradable nanocomposite materials and their recent use in food packaging applications: a review

Abstract

There is significant interest in creating biobased polymers and innovative industrial techniques that can minimize fossil fuel use and migration to an eco-friendly and sustainable way of life. The utilization of novel, high-performing, inexpensive green polymeric materials enabled by bionanocomposites makes it possible for them to replace conventional, non-biodegradable petroleum-based plastic packaging materials that generate serious environmental issues. Thus, using polysaccharides (such as starch, chitosan, cellulose derivatives, and carboxymethyl cellulose), biodegradable polymers (e.g., polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), and polycaprolactone (PCL)), and edible films are new approaches that could be investigated to resolve this crisis. Biobased films enhanced the shelf life, food safety, and ease of handling for food packaging, based on international guidelines. The current review provides a comprehensive overview of the development and potential for use of new biobased materials from various sources in antimicrobial food packaging, including carbohydrate (polysaccharide)-based materials, antibacterial agents, and biobased composites. These materials can address the problems of environmental impact as well as the prevention of food-borne pathogens and spoilage microorganisms. Additionally, the use of biobased polymers can be increased as a result of the usage of nanotechnology in food packaging, reducing waste from food-related packaging materials, and promoting food preservation by prolonging the shelf life of foods.