Zeolite‐based polymer composite films for vegetables and fruits packaging: A review

Abstract

AbstractThe deterioration of fruits during production, transportation, and storage has become one of the main challenges in supplying fruits based on consumer requirements. Therefore, the application of suitable packaging containing effective additives to improve the properties of the used film, is very important. In this article, the studies were conducted on the use of Zeolite as an effective additive to improve the properties of polymer packaging films owing to its high porosity and low toxicity. The results showed that the presence of zeolite in a packaging film can lead to the improvement of visual observation and firmness, reduction of weight loss and total soluble solids (TSS), and increase in the pH of the packed fruits. The results obtained from reviewing the literature show that the use of zeolite has different effects on the gas permeation or adsorption through the packaging films which can control the degradative parameters of fruits and vegetables. Surface modifiers can increase the efficiency of zeolites in packaging films which are also evaluated in this article.Highlights Packaging of fruits with the use of polymer films and zeolite as an additive increases their shelf life. Ethylene is a flammable gas with the formula C2H4 that accelerates the fruit ripening. Zeolites are hydrated aluminosilicates of alkali or alkaline earth cations that are crystalline and microporous. Zeolites are widely used in the packaging of polymeric composites, due to their chemical structure and unique characteristics. The visual features, firmness, pH, TSS, TA, and weight loss are factors to be investigated for each fruit.