Application of nanotechnology in food packaging

Petroleum-based plastics are the primary choice of food industries due to their added advantages over other packaging systems. High production and mismanagement of plastics are serious concerns. Moreover, food safety and security have been a major concern of the consumer and the food industry. Biopolymer-based packaging has been one of the alternatives to plastic packaging. However, inherent limitations such as high water solubility, low mechanical strength, and poor barrier properties restrict biopolymers’ application. Nanotechnology is one of the techniques to overcome these limitations. Nanoparticles show extraordinary properties, such as when incorporated into a biopolymer matrix not only enhance the mechanical or barrier properties but also show strong antimicrobial properties. Metals and metal oxide nanoparticles are being incorporated into biopolymers to develop nanocomposite films. Different methods, such as solvent casting, electrospinning, extrusion, or spraying, are being used to develop nanocomposite films or coatings. The addition of nanoparticles in an optimal concentration into a biopolymer-based matrix has been promising in terms of the safety and development of packaging materials suitable for food packaging applications.