Sustainable applications of carrageenan as a next-generation biopolymer in intelligent and active food packaging

Abstract

Carrageenan is extracted from seaweeds and is considered a natural polysaccharide that has emerged as one of the most promising biopolymers for sustainable food packaging applications. Due to the increasing demand for eco-friendly packaging over conventional plastics, carrageenan-based films serve as a versatile solution that aligns with environmental and consumer acceptability of their use. Carrageenan is recognized as a sustainable and eco-friendly bio-material for food packaging due to its excellent film-forming abilities, biocompatibility, low cost, and functional properties. It offers a sustainable solution for preserving and extending the shelf life of food products by providing a protective film that can incorporate active constituents, such as antimicrobial and antioxidant agents, to enhance food quality and safety. As a biodegradable and natural polymer, carrageenan-based packaging helps to address environmental concerns while effectively maintaining the freshness of various food items throughout storage and distribution. Active constituents may include antimicrobial agents, antioxidants, oxygen scavengers, ethylene absorbers, or other bioactive compounds that can perform one or more functions. These compounds could be immobilized onto the package, allowing for controlled release into the food matrix. This review categorizes various types of carrageenan-based packaging, including edible coatings, active packaging, and innovative packaging integrated with sensors, which address food packaging needs and evaluate the factors determining the suitability of these biomaterials. The effects of packaging on physical attributes, chemical stability, microbial growth, organoleptic quality, and shelf life of the food are discussed. The flexibility of carrageenan, integrated with innovative materials and efficient processing technologies for packaging, is also included. Furthermore, the potential toxicity, consumer acceptability, challenges, and opportunities of carrageenan packaging are explored, along with future perspectives and government encouragement for carrageenan cultivation, which provide future directions for research in this arena.