Recent Advances in Food Packaging with a Focus on Nanotechnology

Abstract

Background: Food packaging technology is continuously evolving in response to the growing challenges in modern society. Active and intelligent packaging systems are two innovative branches of the packaging field, which allow the development of food products with extended shelf life, enhanced food quality and safety. Objective: The current work reviewed the most relevant recent patents and scientific publications on the different categories of active and intelligent packaging systems and currently available commercial applications with a closer look to the application of nanotechnology applied to the food packaging sector. Methods: The work has been carried out combining a qualitative/quantitative approach. In the specific patent data were combined with the most relevant scientific publication on food packaging technology. Results: The most recent patents and scientific works have been discussed with more emphasis on the use of nanotechnology for the development of new packaging materials with improved mechanical, barrier and antimicrobial properties and on the use of bio-based nanocomposites as a way to improve the technological properties of green materials, replacing conventional non-biodegradable petroleum-based plastic packaging materials. Conclusions: Low diffusion of active and intelligent packaging in EU countries has been related to their high costs and to the lack of a worldwide accepted legislation about their safety issues. Even though much progress has been made, further research still needs to be conducted on how these solutions may affect product characteristics. Keywords: Nanotechnology, packaging, smart packaging, bio-based materials, intelligent packaging, active food packaging, absorber sachets, releaser films.