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Materials
Summary
This paper reviews advances in nanocomposite and biopolymer-based food packaging materials, noting that microplastic pollution has been detected globally and is a recognized threat to ecosystem and human health. It briefly contextualises microplastics as a motivation for developing biodegradable packaging alternatives, though the primary focus is materials science rather than microplastics research per se.
When used in food packaging, nanocomposites are better able to withstand the stress of thermal food processing, transportation, and storage. Nanocomposites may advance the utilization of biopolymers in food packaging. Carbon-based graphene nanoplates can form heat-resistant, high barrier nanocomposites that are promising in food packaging applications. In recent years, plant protein-based films as a replacement for synthetic plastics have attracted the attention of the global food packaging industry due to their biodegradability and unique properties. Microplastic pollution has been reported in all kinds of environments worldwide and is considered a potential threat to the health of ecosystems and humans. Single-use plastic is a versatile material. It has been adopted as an alternate to traditional materials specifically for use in food packaging due to its inherent characteristics like high durability, inertness, and protective ability. Edible coatings and films can be used to improve food quality.