An Overview of Bio-Based Polymers with Potential for Food Packaging Applications
Raluca Şomoghi, Sonia Mihai, Florin Oancea
Abstract
Food packaging is an essential part of the food industry. Packaging materials are indispensable in ensuring product safety, enhancing consumer experience, and supporting sustainable practices. This review provides an update on the role of bio-based polymers, including polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), starch-based polymers, and cellulose-based polymers (cellulose acetate (CA), cellulose sulphate (CS), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), nanocellulose (NC), and methylcellulose (MC)) for food packaging applications. Properties as mechanical, barrier and antimicrobial, as well as their eco-friendly behavior, are also summarized. The advantages and disadvantages of using bio-based polymers in food packaging are discussed. Present review also addresses the challenges associated with their preparation and highlights the potential future prospects of bio-based polymers for packaging applications.