Review
Polymer Science
Feng Wu, Manjusri Misra, Amar K. Mohanty
Summary: Biodegradable polymers have attracted significant attention due to their environmentally friendly compostability. However, challenges remain for their practical application in packaging, particularly in addressing gas/moisture barrier issues. Various strategies have been researched for decades to overcome these challenges, such as chain architecture tailoring, crystallinity, melt blending/multi-layer co-extrusion, nanotechnology, and surface coating. This review focuses on improving the oxygen/water vapor barrier properties of biodegradable polymers and discusses the limitations of current methods and potential solutions.
PROGRESS IN POLYMER SCIENCE
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Wing-Fu Lai, Wing-Tak Wong
Summary: This article reviews the principles of designing polymeric active packaging films, discusses factors to be considered during materials selection and film generation, and explores practical considerations for the use of these films in active food packaging.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Review
Food Science & Technology
Yuan Zhao, Jiejie An, Hongxia Su, Bo Li, Dongwu Liang, Chongxing Huang
Summary: Food safety remains a concern due to spoilage, waste, and poisoning caused by microorganisms. The demand for functional, eco-friendly, and efficient antimicrobial food packaging is increasing. However, conventional packaging materials have limited antimicrobial effects, are not environmentally friendly, and often lead to drug-resistant microorganisms. Therefore, the development of more effective, sustainable, and safe antimicrobial materials has become a research focus. This review discusses the latest research on combining renewable and biodegradable polysaccharide-based substrates with organic guanidine-based polymers, chlorine dioxide, or natural antimicrobial agents in food packaging, providing theoretical and technical support for the development of new antimicrobial food packaging and extension of food shelf-life.
FOOD RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Nawadon Petchwattana, Benjatham Sukkaneewat, Phisut Naknaen, Jakkid Sanetuntikul, Ektinai Jansri
Summary: The research found that adding 5wt% tributyrin and 15wt% core-shell rubber to poly(lactic acid) could significantly improve its flexibility and toughness, making it promising for flexible packaging applications. Thermal testing showed that the added blend had a noticeable impact on transition temperatures and crystallization behavior, while the migration rate of tributyrin increased with higher temperatures and longer test durations.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2022)
Review
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Tijo Antony, Reeba Mary Cherian, Rini Thresia Varghese, Hanieh Kargarzadeh, Deepalekshmi Ponnamma, Cintil Jose Chirayil, Sabu Thomas
Summary: Healthy and sustainable solutions for food packaging have gained remarkable interest, with a focus on biodegradable nanomaterials with good antibacterial performance. However, challenges still exist in terms of antibacterial performance and industrial scaling up.
Article
Polymer Science
Jirui Zhang, William Pointer, Georgios Patias, Lucas Al-Shok, Rachel A. Hand, Timothy Smith, David M. Haddleton
Summary: End-functionalization of polyisoprene and polymyrcene was achieved via anionic polymerization in THF with several epoxides as terminating agents, leading to the induction of hydroxyl functional group in the final products. Full hydrogenation of the polymers was performed following epoxide termination. Characterization of the functional polymers using 1H and 13C NMR demonstrated high levels of regioselective termination, SEC showed good control over molecular weight with narrow distributions, MALDI-ToF MS confirmed very high levels of functionalization, and thermal analysis (TGA & DSC) was conducted.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Wing-Fu Lai
Summary: This article presents the latest advances in the design and applications of polymeric films for antioxidant active food packaging and discusses the translation of these films from the laboratory to commercial applications.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Applied
Jiabo Shi, Ruizhen Zhang, Xiaochen Liu, Yuxuan Zhang, Yuxin Du, Huahua Dong, Yutian Ma, Xiaojie Li, Peter C. K. Cheung, Feng Chen
Summary: Innovative food packaging techniques, particularly the development of multifunctional nanocomposites, have been the focus of recent research in the field of emerging active and sustainable food packaging systems. This review provides an overview of biomass-derived nanocomposite films and highlights their advantages for agricultural products.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Erica da Costa Moncao, Cristiani Viegas Brandao Grisi, Janaina de Moura Fernandes, Priscila Santos Souza, Antonia Lucia de Souza
Summary: Consumer demand for natural products with low concentration of additives and controlled environmental impact has posed a major challenge for the lipid food packaging industry. Active packaging trends such as oxygen absorbers and antioxidant releasers are gaining popularity in the industry. However, challenges related to the physical and mechanical properties of materials need to be addressed for the commercialization of oxygen absorbing and antioxidant-releasing packaging.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ajmal P. Muhammed, Sadhasivam Thangarasu, Tae Hwan Oh
Summary: A novel green composite film with excellent film formation, physical and mechanical properties, and water vapor permeability was successfully fabricated as an alternative to petroleum-based food packaging materials. By incorporating lignin nanoparticles, the performance of the composite film was further enhanced. The film also showed thermal shrinkage resistance and UV blocking efficiency, extending the shelf life of cherry tomatoes.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Review
Food Science & Technology
Kalpani Y. Perera, Amit K. Jaiswal, Swarna Jaiswal
Summary: Biopolymer-based packaging materials have gained significant interest worldwide due to their biodegradability, renewability, and biocompatibility. Various biopolymers, including starch, chitosan, carrageenan, and polylactic acid, have been studied for their potential use in food packaging. Reinforcement agents such as nanofillers and active agents enhance the properties of biopolymers for active and intelligent packaging applications. While certain biopolymer materials are already utilized in the packaging industry, there is a growing trend in their usage, leading to the implementation of legislations by various organizations. This review article discusses the challenges, possible solutions, and future trends in utilizing biopolymers for food packaging, emphasizing the need for further research and development.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Kaixuan Ma, Taotao Zhe, Fan Li, Yalan Zhang, Min Yu, Ruixia Li, Li Wang
Summary: In this study, biodegradable and antibacterial packaging films were successfully prepared by incorporating self-assembled berberine-cinnamic acid nanoparticles (BC NPs) into the film matrixes. The films showed improved UV-shielding property, hydrophobicity, thermal stability, mechanical property, and antibacterial ability. The antimicrobial activity of the nano composite films (NFs) was significantly enhanced under white light, making them ideal candidate materials to replace plastics and extend the shelf life of food products.
FOOD HYDROCOLLOIDS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Pavidharshini Selvasekaran, Ramalingam Chidambaram
Summary: Bioaerogels, labeled as solid smoke, are advanced food materials with unique properties such as high surface area, low density, highly porous structure, and biodegradability. These materials have gained attention from researchers worldwide and have shown potential for food-related applications. Despite their high mechanical stability, thermal stability, and water holding capacity, bioaerogels are not yet commercialized as food materials and further research is needed for their direct application in food products.
FOOD HYDROCOLLOIDS
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Paola Scarfato, Maria Luisa Graziano, Arianna Pietrosanto, Luciano Di Maio, Loredana Incarnato
Summary: This study aimed to use hazelnut perisperm as an antioxidant agent in the production of biodegradable polymeric films for active packaging. The results showed that the presence of hazelnut perisperm conferred significant antioxidant activity, extended the sealability temperature range, and decreased the stiffness and mechanical strength of the films while increasing their ductility.
Article
Polymer Science
Frine Velazquez-Contreras, Camilo Zamora-Ledezma, Ivan Lopez-Gonzalez, Luis Meseguer-Olmo, Estrella Nunez-Delicado, Jose Antonio Gabaldon
Summary: The use of cyclodextrins in food packaging enhances solubility and protection of volatile or bioactive molecules. Emphasis is placed on sustainable and biodegradable packaging, including the incorporation of nanotechnologies. Discussion also includes risks to human health, legislation, patents, and future research challenges.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Shashank Saini, Ashish A. Kadam, Vivek Kumar, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad, Surendra Pratap Singh, Dharm Dutt
Summary: Rice straw can be converted into paperboard and food-serving bowls through the process of refiner mechanical pulping, with improved water and grease resistance. Utilizing rice straw for value-added products holds promise in reducing air pollution, decreasing plastic disposables, and promoting entrepreneurship in rural areas.
BIOMASS CONVERSION AND BIOREFINERY
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Pardeep Kumar, Lokesh Kumar, Rohit Tanwar, Suman Singh, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: The present study investigated the effects of a guar gum based edible coating containing citric acid and mint leaves extract on ber fruit. Results showed that a coating with 10% mint leaves extract exhibited high antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, reducing respiration rate, TSS, and weight loss during storage, and improving the firmness of the fruit. The sensory aspects of the coating also improved with higher mint leaves extract content.
JOURNAL OF FOOD MEASUREMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Harshi Singhi, Lokesh Kumar, Preetam Sarkar, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: In order to mitigate the health risks associated with the use of plastic films for food preservation, new functional films derived from non-toxic and antioxidant biosources need to be developed. This study developed chitosan-based active antioxidant films by incorporating halloysite nanotubes and Citrus limetta pomace extract. The addition of the extract resulted in thicker films with improved elongation ratio and reduced tensile strength. The optimal film with 20% LPE exhibited 80.42% antioxidant properties.
JOURNAL OF FOOD MEASUREMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION
(2023)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Kirtiraj K. Anushikha, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: The excessive use of non-biodegradable plastics has caused severe environmental pollution and raised ecological concerns. To address this issue, biodegradable and renewable materials, particularly lignin-derived films, have gained significant attention. Lignin, as an abundant aromatic polymer with excellent biodegradability and biocompatibility, holds immense potential for producing functional and sustainable materials as substitutes for plastics. This article reviews the applications of lignin-derived films in food packaging, focusing on their role as UV blockers, antioxidants, and antimicrobial agents. The review also highlights recent advancements in the preparation and advanced applications of lignin-derived film materials, discussing their structural and chemical characteristics, extraction and incorporation techniques, and potential future directions for sustainable and environmentally friendly lignin-derived films.
BIOMASS CONVERSION AND BIOREFINERY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Hanuman Singh Dagur, Esmaeil Behmard, Eerappa Rajakumara, Ebrahim Barzegari
Summary: Computational-based screening identified 24-Methylene cycloartanol acetate (24MCA) and sitosterol acetate (SA) from Lagerstroemia speciosa as potential inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
JOURNAL OF BIOMOLECULAR STRUCTURE & DYNAMICS
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Jitendra Kumar, Konala Akhila, Pardeep Kumar, Ram Kumar Deshmukh, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: The lifestyle changes of millennials have brought about a revolution in the food industry. They prefer effortless ready-to-eat or cook meals (RTE) and expect their food to be served hot. Thermochromic materials can be used as temperature indicators on packaging to communicate the temperature of the food inside.
JOURNAL OF THERMAL ANALYSIS AND CALORIMETRY
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Konala Akhila, Afreen Sultana, Dakuri Ramakanth, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: With enormous amounts of food being wasted at every level of consumption, the future of food security is in jeopardy. Intelligent colorimetric indicators using natural pigments can help eliminate confusion and communicate the quality of food. This study developed a pH indicator film using anthocyanins extracted from a novel flower source, which showed promising potential as an active and intelligent visual indicator in poultry packaging.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Lokesh Kumar, Shefali Tripathi, Kirtiraj K. K. Gaikwad
Summary: A cactus mucilage-gelatin bio-composite film was made using a solution casting method. The effects of citric acid as a crosslinking agent at different concentrations on the film's moisture sorption characteristics and mechanical properties were studied. Results showed that incorporating citric acid reduced the film's moisture content, swelling ratio, water vapor permeability, and moisture sorption tendency. The film with 0.5% citric acid exhibited the best crystallinity and highest tensile strength, making it suitable for food packaging applications.
BIOMASS CONVERSION AND BIOREFINERY
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Prachi Jain, Shefali Tripathi, Ram Kumar Deshmukh, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad, Suman Singh
Summary: In this study, sugarcane bagasse and amla pomace were used to develop packaging paper, with the investigation of the synergistic effect of nanoparticle TiO2 and amla pomace. It was found that the utilization of sugarcane bagasse could bring a sustainable solution for non-wood pulp, while the addition of TiO2 did not significantly affect the mechanical properties of the paper. The water vapor barrier quality and crystallinity of the paper were improved.
BIOMASS CONVERSION AND BIOREFINERY
(2023)
Review
Astronomy & Astrophysics
Lokesh Kumar, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: Since the beginning of space exploration missions, space agencies have been improving the quality of food and nutrition for crew members through advancements in food processing, preservation, and packaging. Different types of space food, such as bite-size food, rehydratable food, thermostabilized food, intermediate moisture food, and irradiated food, are reviewed. The article also highlights the challenges and packaging trends of space food from organizations like DRDO, JAXA, and NASA.
LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Bittu Prudhvi Kumar, Dakuri Ramakanth, Konala Akhila, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: A novel non-metallic oxygen scavenging system consisting of 3-hydroxyphenol and potassium carbonate was developed and activated with moisture. The optimum formulation was found to be 1:1 (w/w) ratio of 3-hydroxyphenol and potassium carbonate. The developed system demonstrated efficient oxygen scavenging capacities at different storage temperatures and humidities.
FOOD PACKAGING AND SHELF LIFE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ram Kumar Anushikha, Ram Kumar Deshmukh, Praveen Kumar Kunam, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: This study investigates the potential of incorporating micro-fibrillated cellulose and halloysite nanotubes into guar gum films for active antioxidant food packaging. The results show that the addition of micro-fibrillated cellulose and halloysite nanotubes improves the properties of the films, including thermal stability and antioxidant activity.
SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY
(2023)
Review
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Ram Kumar Deshmukh, Lokman Hakim, Konala Akhila, Dakuri Ramakanth, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: Nano clays have been widely studied and utilized in food packaging due to their ability to enhance physical, chemical, and barrier properties. However, potential toxicity issues from prolonged exposure to nano clays need further investigation and risk assessment.
INTERNATIONAL NANO LETTERS
(2023)
