Plant-based Biopolymers for Food Packaging : Technologies and Innovations

Omtale

Plant-Based Biopolymers for Food Packaging explores the development, processing, characterization, and application of renewable plant-derived polymers as sustainable approaches. The book brings together recent advances in plant-based materials for food packaging, with emphasis on their biodegradability, functionality, safety, and potential contribution to a circular bioeconomy. It covers major plant-derived biopolymers, including starch, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, pectin, alginate, gums, proteins, and plant-based composites, examining their sources, extraction, modification, film formation, and packaging performance. Attention is given to strategies for improving mechanical strength, barrier properties, thermal stability, water resistance, and biodegradability to meet the requirements of modern food-packaging applications. The book discusses an overview of recent works on developing biodegradable films, coatings, and innovative packaging materials based on proteins from plant resources. They also deliberate active and intelligent packaging systems, incorporation of natural antioxidants and antimicrobial agents, nanocomposites, edible films and coatings, and controlled-release systems for extending food shelf life. The role of plant-based packaging in reducing food waste and plastic pollution is considered alongside challenges related to scalability, cost, processing, migration, food-contact safety, regulatory requirements, and end-of-life management. The outcomes of recent reports are explored and deliberate to enhance research and better understand protein-based bio-packaging of plant origin. By integrating fundamental principles with emerging technologies and industrial applications, this book provides a comprehensive resource for students, researchers, scientists, food technologists, packaging professionals, policymakers, and industry stakeholders working toward sustainable and high-performance food-packaging solutions. Features of the Book· Covers major plant-based biopolymers used in sustainable food packaging, including starch, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, pectin, agar, wax, and plant proteins· Deliberates industrial scalability, commercialization, economic considerations, and end-of-life possibility· Addresses active and intelligent packaging for food preservation and shelf-life extension· Explores biodegradable films, coatings, composites, nanocomposites, and edible packaging systems· Identifies emerging research directions and opportunities for next-generation sustainable food-packaging materials