review · Frontiers in Chemistry
Plant-based materials derived from polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids offer renewable, biodegradable alternatives to conventional packaging. Edible films made from these sources possess vital qualities such as mechanical strength, barrier properties, optical characteristics, thermal stability, and the capacity to extend shelf life, making them suitable for food packaging and related uses. Recent advances incorporate three-dimensional printing technology to create customised designs and complex geometries, supporting personalised nutrition. Functionalisation strategies, including active and intelligent packaging, antimicrobial properties, and the integration of bioactive compounds, provide enhanced performance. Despite these capabilities, hurdles remain regarding performance optimisation, sustainability, regulatory compliance, and industrial scalability. Addressing these challenges supports the reduction of plastic waste and fossil fuel dependence while advancing circular economy goals.
Conventional packaging relies heavily on fossil fuels and generates persistent plastic pollution. Edible and plant-derived films provide biodegradable alternatives that can preserve food freshness, extend shelf life, and potentially deliver targeted nutrition. Overcoming existing technical and regulatory barriers can significantly reduce plastic waste and assist industries in transitioning toward a circular, sustainable packaging economy.
Targeted at food packaging manufacturers and nutrition providers, these plant-based films enable active, intelligent, and customised packaging solutions. While functional benefits such as shelf-life extension and 3D-printed geometries are documented, practical adoption remains at an early to developmental stage. Realising commercial potential requires resolving key hurdles highlighted in the research, specifically industrial scalability, regulatory approvals, and consistent performance optimisation.
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Plant-based materials and edible films have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional packaging materials, offering sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. This mini-review highlights the significance of plant-based materials derived from polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids, showcasing their renewable and biodegradable nature. The properties of edible films, including mechanical strength, barrier properties, optical characteristics, thermal stability, and shelf-life extension, are explored, showcasing their suitability for food packaging and other applications. Moreover, the application of 3D printing technology allows for customized designs and complex geometries, paving the way for personalized nutrition. Functionalization strategies, such as active and intelligent packaging, incorporation of bioactive compounds, and antimicrobial properties, are also discussed, offering additional functionalities and benefits. Challenges and future directions are identified, emphasizing the importance of sustainability, scalability, regulation, and performance optimization. The potential impact of plant-based materials and edible films is highlighted, ranging from reducing reliance on fossil fuels to mitigating plastic waste and promoting a circular economy. In conclusion, plant-based materials and edible films hold great potential in revolutionizing the packaging industry, offering sustainable alternatives to conventional materials. Embracing these innovations will contribute to reducing plastic waste, promoting a circular economy, and creating a sustainable and resilient planet.
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DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1441650
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