Food Packaging

Food packaging traces its evolution from ancient pottery to modern materials like paper, glass, aluminium, steel, and plastics. This chapter discusses packaging techniques (current and future) and evaluates them based on their impact on human and planetary health. Packaging plays a vital role in maintaining food quality and safety by protecting against damage and contamination. However, conventional packaging materials, especially plastics, pose significant environmental and health risks due to their persistence and degradation into micro- and nanoplastics. These particles contribute to pollution and have adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. The chapter explores innovative packaging solutions, including biodegradable, edible, and intelligent packaging, which aim to mitigate these issues and promote sustainability. Intelligent packaging incorporates sensors to monitor food quality, while active packaging modifies gas composition to extend shelf-life. The global plastic crisis is a pressing concern, necessitating a comprehensive approach involving reduction, regulation, improved waste management, and public awareness. By adopting these strategies, it is possible to address the detrimental impacts of plastic pollution and enhance the sustainability of food packaging practices.