Recent advances in biomacromolecule-based nanocomposite films for intelligent food packaging- A review

Abstract

In food packaging, biopolymer films are biodegradable films made from biomacromolecule-based natural materials, while biocomposite films are hybrids of two or more materials, with at least one being biodegradable. Bionanocomposites are different than the earlier ones, as they consist of various nanofillers (both natural and inorganic) in combination with biomacromolecule-based biodegradable materials to make good compostable bionanocomposites. In this regard, a new type of material known as bionanocomposite has been recently introduced to improve the properties and performance of biocomposite films. Bionanocomposites are primarily developed for active packaging, but their use in intelligent packaging is also noteworthy. For example, bionanocomposites developed using a hybrid of anthocyanin and carbon dots as intelligent materials have shown their high pH-sensing properties. The natural nanofillers (like nanocellulose, nanochitosan, nanoliposome, cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibers, etc.) are being employed to promote the sustainability, degradability and safety of bionanocomposites. Overall, this article comprehensively reviews the latest innovations in bionanocomposite films for intelligent food packaging over the past five years. In addition to packaging aspects, the role of nanofillers, the importance of life cycle assessment (LCA) and risk assessment, associated challenges, and future perspectives of bionanocomposite intelligent films are also discussed.

Keywords: Biodegradability; Bionanocomposites; Biopolymers; Intelligent packaging; Nanofillers.