Recent advances in biomolecule-based films and coatings for active and smart food packaging applications

Ideally, packaging materials should ensure the safety and quality of foods, without contributing to environmental degradation. Consequently, there is interest in the development of biodegradable films assembled from natural materials, such as polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and their mixtures. In this review, the physicochemical attributes and functional characteristics of biodegradable films prepared from these food-grade natural substances are summarized. Recent advances in the production of active and intelligent packaging materials are also discussed. Active packaging is designed to improve the shelf life of packaged foods by including antimicrobials or antioxidants, such as essential oils. Intelligent packaging is designed to provide real-time information about the quality, freshness, or safety of packaged foods by including indicators in the film that are responsive to changes in storage conditions, gas levels, pH, etc. Potential applications of intelligent and active packaging materials to fruit, vegetable, meat, seafood, and dairy products are discussed.