Plastic Packaging Research Articles

Use of alfalfa cellulose for formulation of strong, biodegradable film to extend the shelf life of strawberries.

Plastic packaging has increased concerns about human health and the ecosystem due to non-biodegradability. Several biopolymers, such as cellulose, starch, and proteins, are being explored, and cellulosic residue from agricultural biomass is suitable to overcome this predicament. Herein, cellulosic residue fibers (ACR) extracted from alfalfa were used to prepare biodegradable films by solubilizing them in ZnCl2 solution and crosslinking the chains with calcium ions (CaCl2) and sorbitol. Box Behnken Design optimized the ACR, CaCl2, and sorbitol amounts against the responses of water vapor permeability (WVP), tensile strength (TS), and elongation at break (EB). The optimized film combination was found to be 0.5 g ACR, 461.3 mM CaCl2, and 1.05 % sorbitol, making a 12 × 12 cm2 film, with a TS of 16.9 ± 0.4 MPa, EB of 10.1 ± 0.3 %, and WVP of 0.47 ± 0.11×10-10 g.m-1.s-1.Pa-1. It was translucent, blocked UVB light, followed Peleg's water absorption kinetics, displayed anti-oxidant activity, and biodegraded within 35 days at 24 % soil moisture. The ACR film extends the shelf life of strawberries by two more days compared to polystyrene film. The outcome offers a novel path to utilize and conserve natural resources and mitigate plastic perils, promoting a circular bioeconomy and sustainability and a win-win situation between the environment and farmers.

Implications of scale up flexible plastic packaging recycling in the United States

Implications of scale up flexible plastic packaging recycling in the United States

Quantitative methodology for poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) microplastic detection in soil and compost.

With the increasing use of biodegradable plastics in agriculture and food packaging, it has become increasingly important to assess the effects of their fragmentation and mineralization in the environment (i.e., soil, compost). PBAT is a biodegradable polyester widely used in biodegradable mulch films that are intended to fragment and mineralize in soil. To study these effects, novel methodologies are needed to quantify PBAT microplastics in these diverse environments. This work seeks to answer whether gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) can be used as a tool to assess PBAT microplastics in soil. A method was developed that allows PBAT soil extraction by ultrasonication and GCMS quantification after a fatty acid methyl ester derivatization. To validate the method, an industrial compost degradation experiment was carried out to evidence the weight loss of PBAT film and quantify the micro- and nano-plastic generated from them. The presented method improved the existing resolution by, at least, one order of magnitude compared to reported methods. In conclusion, a novel, simple, affordable, and reproducible methodology for PBAT microplastic detection was developed improving the limits of detection and quantification. The method was tested on an industrial compost experiment, demonstrating the ability to trace the totality of the plastic over time, evidencing that PBAT is consumed in the industrial compost environment.

Convertibility and Barrier Performance of Novel Bio‐Based Extrusion‐Coated Paperboards

ABSTRACTConventional fossil fuel–based plastics for food packaging currently cause environmental concerns owing to poor recyclability and degradability, and new strategies are being developed to address these issues. One strategy involves the use of bioresources to produce bio‐based plastics that exhibit similar performance with enhanced sustainability. However, the understanding of the properties of these materials remains limited. Consequently, the convertibility and barrier properties of three extrusion‐coated paperboards before and after creasing were examined in this study. Each coating was composed of a partially bio‐based polymer:low‐density polyethylene (Bio‐PE) and two polybutylene succinate (PBS) grades. All materials demonstrated high oil resistance and low water absorbency (Cobb1800). Certain creased samples of Bio‐PE unexpectedly exhibited a higher barrier to oxygen than the unconverted material, whereas the results for the PBS grades were more consistent. In contrast, Bio‐PE provided a superior barrier to water vapour compared with PBS. The tests indicated that conversion did not reduce the material barrier properties, as confirmed by the negligible surface damage observed using scanning electron microscopy. The issues encountered were attributed to deviations in the production quality of Bio‐PE and insufficient adhesion of both PBS films to the substrate. Although further research is required for improving the coating uniformity and adhesion to substrate, the materials exhibit potential to advance the sustainable packaging.

Evaluation of the quality of pomelo (Citrus maxima) essential oil products during storage

The main disadvantage of the pomelo essential oil storage process is the change in colour and composition over time, which significantly affects the quality of essential oils and limits their usability. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect of packaging type and storage conditions (temperature, time) on the quality of pomelo essential oil products. Pomelo essential oil was preserved in 3 types of packaging (brown glass, white glass, and plastic) at two temperatures of 30°C and 15°C for eight weeks. The parameters used to evaluate the quality of essential oil samples include density, colour index, acid value, chemical compositions, and bioactive activities. The optimal storage conditions of pomelo essential oil were determined as follows: storing in brown glass jars at 30°C for eight weeks. The results showed that after eight weeks, the pomelo essential oil samples were stored in brown glass jars at room temperature (30°C), still retaining their characteristic odour, unchanged colour, density index as 0.856 (g/mL), acid index as 0.748 mg KOH/g, IC50 value as 96.271 (mg/mL), limonene content as 75.99%, indicating that the above storage condition would maintain quality and improve the commercialisation of pomelo essential oil products in the Vietnamese market.

Effects of Packaging Material and Storage Duration on Germination Ability and Vigour of Stored Sunflower Seeds

This study was conducted at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania, to examine the impact of interaction between packaging materials, seed sources, and storage duration on the viability and vigour of sunflower seeds. Quality Declared Seeds (QDS), certified seeds (Control), and farmer-saved seeds were stored in three types of packaging—plastic containers, polypropylene bags, and sisal bags—over six months. Monthly assessments were conducted to measure seed moisture content (SMC), germination percentage (GeP), seedling vigour index (SVI), and fungal infection incidence (FII), using a split-split-plot design in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). The results revealed highly significant interaction effects of packaging materials and storage duration on all parameters (P<0.001). Before storage, seeds exhibited a minimum SMC of 9.00%, a maximum GeP of 87.0%, an SVI of 1981.6, and a low FII of 44%. After six months, seeds stored in plastic containers maintained the highest GeP (80.22%), SVI (1814), and the lowest FII (64.17%) and SMC (10.22%). In contrast, seeds in sisal bags recorded the lowest GeP (68.89%), SVI (1536), highest FII (74.33%), and SMC (13.14%). The combination effects of packaging materials, seed sources, and storage duration were significantly different for SMC (P=0.014) and FII (P<0.001), while no significant interaction was found for GeP (P=0.677) and SVI (P=0.584). This study highlights that plastic containers are the most effective packaging for preserving sunflower seed viability and vigour, while reducing fungal infections. It underscores the significance of proper packaging and storage strategies to enhance seed quality, crucial for improving sunflower productivity in Tanzania.

Characterization of the Municipal Plastic and Multilayer Packaging Waste in Three Cities of the Baltic States

The composition of plastic and multilayer packaging waste was assessed in the mixed municipal solid waste (MSW) streams of the Kaunas (Lithuania), Daugavpils (Latvia) and Tallinn (Estonia) municipalities. For the analysis of samples in the mixed MSW streams, the authors used manual sorting and a visual recognition method. Composition analysis of plastic and multilayer packaging waste from separately collected waste of multi-family and single-family households was performed in the Kaunas and Tallinn municipalities. For the analysis of samples in the separately collected waste streams, the research group combined manual sorting and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy methods. The findings reveal that the percentage distribution of plastic and multilayer packaging waste within the municipal solid waste (MSW) stream is relatively consistent across the municipalities of Kaunas, Daugavpils and Tallinn, comprising 40.16%, 36.83% and 35.09%, respectively. However, a notable variation emerges when examining separately collected plastic and multilayer packaging waste streams. In this category, the proportion of plastic and multilayer packaging within the total separately collected packaging waste stream ranges from 62.05% to 74.7% for multi-family residential buildings and from 44.66% to 56.89% for single-family residential buildings. The authors provided further insights for the enhanced recycling potential of different plastic materials through improved sorting.

Preparation and characterization of polyvinyl alcohol and chitosan composite film with cassia oil encapsulated in β-cyclodextrin and its application in fresh banana.

In this study, composite films were developed by encapsulating cassia oil (CO) with β-cyclodextrin through a microencapsulation technique and incorporating it into a chitosan (CS), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and glycerol matrix. The primary objective of the film was to inhibit bacterial growth on the surface of fresh bananas and extend their shelf life. Characterization methods were employed to evaluate the physical properties and functionality of the composite films. FTIR, XRD, and SEM analyses demonstrated that cassia oil microcapsules (COM) were uniformly dispersed throughout the film and exhibited excellent compatibility with the matrix. The inclusion of 30 % COM improved the film's UV-blocking properties from 86.15 % to 91.03 %. Additionally, due to its hydrophobic nature, CO significantly reduced the water content to 9.02 % and 10.67 %. Furthermore, the COM enhanced the film's tensile strength from 21.18 MPa to 43.21 MPa, and increased its antioxidant capacity to 36.87 %. The results also indicated that 30 % COM significantly enhanced the film's antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with inhibition zone diameters of 12.5 mm and 11.5 mm, while maintaining biosafety, as evidenced by unaltered cell survival rates in BEAS-2B and L02 cells. The film containing 30 % COM exhibited excellent preservation capacity for bananas, effectively extending their shelf life. These findings suggest that films containing COM have the potential to replace traditional plastic packaging in practical applications.

Bioplastic from Corn Starch; Characteristic and Biodegradable Performance

For food packaging plastics are generally used. Raw materials having good mechanical properties, cheap, lightweight and simple in the manufacturing process are used for polymers and plastics. Whereas the many plastics are not easily biodegradable. Therefore, innovators and other communities are worried to overcome the problems occurring due to non-biodegradable plastics which is making an adverse effect on the environment, so the more emphasis is given to produce the biodegradable plastic for day to day needs use. So, bioplastics are the mostly demanded and required entity because they are generally biodegradable, and using natural resources and will reduce the environmental pollution. To manufacture bioplastic starch-based material is mostly used. Due to it added natural fibres increases the strength of bioplastic and better degradation process of the bioplastic in soil. The additional properties of bioplastic like, tensile strength, stiffness, capacity to be used for purposes are the more advantageous. In this paper process of corn starch bioplastic, its characteristic study and its better possibilities of degradation due to corn starch biodegradable plastic with natural fibre are described. Which will give the scope in future to innovative ideas for material component as a natural fibre for bioplastic manufacturing.

From nature to nanotech: Harnessing the power of electrospun polysaccharide-based nanofibers as sustainable packaging.

Today, the applications of natural polysaccharide-based nanofibers are growing in drug delivery and food industries. They also showed their capability as packaging due to biodegradability, mechanical strength, barrier properties, thermal stability, antioxidant, and antimicrobial features. Natural polysaccharides come from different sources, such as plants, microbes, and animals. Natural polysaccharide-based nanofibers can be considered sustainable packaging in contrast to plastic packaging due to their safety and biodegradability. Smart packaging is a new trend in packaging materials, and natural polysaccharides can be applied as smart packaging. They can work as an indicator that confirms food health in food packaging. Electrospinning is one of the most used methods for the fabrication of nanofibers, and it can also be used for the fabrication of natural polysaccharide nanofibers. This method can be scaled up and used to fabricate nanofibers on a large scale. This paper will review recent studies on natural polysaccharide-based nanofiber as packaging materials and their benefits. We also discuss the challenges and limitations of their scale-up and electrospinning process. Furthermore, we will discuss the future perspective of natural polysaccharide-based nanofiber as a new sustainable packaging.

Silver Migrates to Solid Foods and Abiotic Surfaces from Model Plastic Packaging Containing Silver Nanoparticles

Silver Migrates to Solid Foods and Abiotic Surfaces from Model Plastic Packaging Containing Silver Nanoparticles

Transforming Agricultural Food Waste Into Bioplastics: Methods, Potential, and Technological Advances

AbstractThe improper disposal of agricultural food waste (AFW) and its associated plastic packaging significantly exacerbates environmental degradation, including pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and loss of valuable resources, while imposing substantial economic burdens. These pressing challenges have spurred advancements in bioplastics as sustainable and eco‐friendly alternatives to conventional plastics. Here, the potential of AFW, rich in biopolymers such as starch and cellulose, as a renewable feedstock is examined for bioplastics such as polylactic acid, polybutylene succinate, and polyhydroxyalkanoates. It explores the characteristics of these bioplastics, focusing on production techniques such as extraction‐based processes, microbial fermentation, fermentation combined with polymerization, and synthesis from volatile fatty acids. Additionally, the role of AFW pretreatment methods, including physical, chemical, biological, and enzymatic approaches, in enhancing conversion efficiency is analyzed. Here, it is highlighted that recent advancements in bioplastic production have improved efficiency, biodegradability, and scalability, offering a viable substitute for traditional plastics. These findings demonstrate that valorizing AFW not only addresses plastic and food waste challenges but also promotes sustainability and circular economy principles, paving the way for greener industries and reduced ecological impact.

Occurrence and migration of synthetic phenolic antioxidants in food packaging materials: Effects of plastic types and storage temperature.

Synthetic phenolic antioxidants (SPAs) are widely used in food packaging materials to extend product shelf life. Not much attention has been paid to high molecular weight SPAs (HMW SPAs) so far, despite their potential health risks. In this study, we first analyzed the concentrations of ten HMW SPAs in food plastic packaging materials (including 6 plastic categories, n=116). The total concentrations of HMW SPAs (∑SPAs) ranged from 0.0844 to 894mg/kg, with a geometric mean of 71.7mg/kg. The predominant HMW SPAs included AO1010 (accounting for 71.8% of total concentrations of HMW SPAs), AO1076 (21.4%), and AO3114 (3.14%), with AO1010 detected in all samples. Higher concentrations were notably found in polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) materials. Migration tests revealed that HMW SPAs could readily transfer into food simulants, with PP exhibiting the lowest migration levels. Migration of SPAs into fatty foods was pronounced, increasing with temperature (temperature gradients: 4°C, 25°C, and 60°C). In the 95% ethanol food simulants, the maximum migration amounts of AO1076 in PE (7.05mg/kg at 25°C) and PET (9.79mg/kg at 25°C; 10.8mg/kg at 60°C) surpassed the specific migration limit (SML) set by the national standards, posing potential food safety risks. This was the first report on the presence and migration patterns of ten HMW SPAs in food plastic packaging materials, providing crucial insights into food packaging material safety.

Sustainable Fruit Preservation Using Algae-Based Bioactive Coatings on Textile Packaging

This study explores the potential of using natural textile packaging infused with algae-based coatings as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic packaging for extending fruit shelf life. Traditional plastic packaging is known to release harmful chemicals into both food and the environment, which underscores the need for safer, more sustainable alternatives. This study investigates algae from three distinct groups—green, red, and brown algae—renowned for their rich bioactive compounds that exhibit natural preservative properties. Algae powders were prepared via immersion in purified water, boiling, and mixing with gum arabic to form a gelatinous coating solution. The algae coating was applied to knitted fabric, which was then crafted into bags for storing fruits such as tomatoes and apples. Over 21 days, the texture, weight loss, and juice content of the fruits stored in algae-coated bags were monitored and compared to those stored in uncoated packaging. The results showed that fruits in algae-coated packaging demonstrated significantly less weight loss and retained better texture. In terms of weight, the combination of red, green, and brown algae-coated packaging demonstrated the lowest reduction in weight for tomatoes (4.2%) and apples (3.8%) after 21 days, outperforming uncoated packaging, which exhibited reductions of 11.2% and 10.8%, respectively. These findings support the potential of algae-coated textile packaging to reduce reliance on conventional plastics while maintaining fruit quality during storage.

Sustainable Redesign of Plastic Packaging: Transition Single-Layer for Enhanced Efficiency and Circular Economy

The flexible packaging industry faces increasing demand to balance product functionality with environmental sustainability. This study focuses on redesigning plastic packaging by transitioning from dual to single-layer structures. The six-phase product development methodology was employed to assess this transition's technical and economic impacts. The findings show that the single-layer design reduces raw material usage by 20%, lowers production costs by 7.5%, and shortens production time by 780 minutes per 8,000 meters of packaging. Although slight increases in Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) and Oxygen Transmission Rate (O2TR) were observed, the changes remained within acceptable industry standards, with minimal impact on product shelf life. The new design also offers significant environmental advantages, simplifying recycling processes and supporting circular economy principles. Furthermore, the House of Quality (HoQ) analysis revealed that the redesign effectively addresses critical customer needs, particularly regarding durability, affordability, and delivery efficiency. This research demonstrates the potential for sustainable innovation in the packaging industry. It provides a pathway for companies seeking to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining product performance.

Sustainability Assessment of Employing Chemical Recycling Technologies on Multilayer Packaging Waste

While multilayer plastic is difficult for recycling, innovative technologies and tactics are being developed to improve the process. New technologies in chemical recycling show promising results; however, the net improvement brought to the environment, economy, and society should be assessed for their wider adoption and diffusion. This study focuses on a Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) of an innovative process for the sorting and chemical recycling of multilayer plastic packaging waste from post-consumer sources to obtain new packaging for the food industry. The analysis indicated that the packaging made of rPET obtained through depolymerization is environmentally and economically competitive compared to the virgin PET. Packaging made of rPET and rLDPE obtained through delamination usually performed worse (or comparable) than the virgin counterparts. The social impact assessment indicated some areas of concern (e.g., workers’ health and safety risks due to exposure to hazardous substances), as well as potential opportunities (e.g., improved local employment). This paper is the first to present a synergetic approach to the sustainability assessment of chemical recycling technologies to obtain new high-performance packaging solutions. It provides useful insights to academics, managers, and decision makers in the plastic recycling sector whether (and under what conditions) the chemical recycling of multilayer plastic waste is feasible from the environmental, economic, and social perspectives. Despite associated uncertainties, the results are promising as an attractive option for further research, optimization, and upscaling.

Preparation of a biodegradable packaging film by konjac glucomannan/sodium alginate reinforced with nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots from crayfish shell for crayfish meat preservation.

The development of biomass material is an important approach to alleviating the excessive using of plastic packaging, by which the product could be more environmentally friendly and lower toxicity. In this study, we developed a biodegradable photodynamic antibacterial food packaging film using nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (N-CQDs) synthesized from crayfish shells, combined with konjac glucomannan (KGM) and sodium alginate (SA). Casting method was used to prepare the composite film and results indicated that incorporation of N-CQDs significantly enhanced the mechanical and barrier properties of the film by reducing the number of micropores. The N-CQDs endowed the film with strong antioxidant activity and UV resistance. The DPPH scavenging rate of the composite film reached 77.92 %, while the transmittance of ultraviolet (300 nm) was reduced to 16.97 %. Furthermore, under blue light irradiation, the film exhibited excellent photodynamic antibacterial effects against Shewanella putrefaciens and Staphylococcus aureus, achieving inhibition rates of 99.2 % and 98.99 %, respectively. The film solution demonstrated no cytotoxicity, and the composite film preserved crayfish meat for up to 8 days at 4 °C. Furthermore, the film almost completely degrading in soil within 14 days. These findings suggest that the KGM/SA/N-CQD film is a promising degradable antimicrobial material for food packaging applications.

Microplastic contamination of food

Microplastic food contamination has become a growing concern due to its potential impacts on human health. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size that can originate from various sources, such as cosmetics, textiles, and plastic packaging. These particles can enter the food chain through multiple routes, such as the environment, food processing, and packaging. They can accumulate in different types of food, including seafood, drinking water, and agricultural produce. Exposure to microplastics through food consumption is a significant concern, as it is difficult to avoid and can potentially cause adverse health effects. Microplastics can accumulate in the human body and have been linked to various health issues, such as inflammation, organ damage, and the disruption of endocrine and immune systems. Additionally, microplastics can act as vectors for harmful chemicals and pathogens, further exacerbating their potential health impacts. Several studies have documented the presence of microplastics in different food products, with varying concentrations depending on the type of food and its origin. Due to their filter-feeding behaviour, contamination levels are exceptionally high in seafood, such as fish and shellfish. Additionally, studies have found microplastics in bottled and tap water, beer, honey, salt, and even air. Efforts to mitigate microplastic contamination of food include developing better waste management practices, promoting biodegradable and compostable packaging, and improving food processing methods. However, much more research is needed to fully understand the extent of microplastic contamination in food and its potential impacts on human health. Microplastic contamination of food is a complex issue requiring a multidisciplinary approach to address its ecological and human health implications fully. By raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices, we can work towards reducing our exposure to microplastics in food and protecting public health.

Antimicrobial and Physical Characteristics of Cassava Starch Biodegradable Film Enhanced with Citronella Extract

Plastic packaging has been reported to pose environmental concerns due to its non-biodegradability. Biodegradable films, derived from renewable resources, offer a promising alternative due to their biodegradability properties. In addition, antimicrobial active packaging, using natural ingredients can enhance food safety and extend shelf life. Citronella is well documented regarding its antimicrobial activity potentially serves as natural ingredient in the production of biodegradable films. This study aimed to investigate the effects of extract types and concentrations of citronella on physical, and antimicrobial properties of biodegradable films. Results indicate that citronella extract significantly enhanced the antimicrobial activity, biodegradability, and certain physical properties of biodegradable films. Moreover, extract types and concentrations influenced transparency, color parameters, and water vapor transmission rate. Higher extract concentrations led to increased antimicrobial inhibition but decreased transparency. These findings suggest that citronella extract-added cassava starch biodegradable film could offer a promising alternative to traditional plastic packaging toward improving environmental sustainability and food safety. Further research is required to optimize the formulation and scale-up production for practical application.

Bottling it? Consumer responses to less environmentally friendly products: A choice experiment for water in plastic packaging in the UK.

Consumers have several options when confronted with less environmentally friendly packaging like water in single use plastic bottles - they can ignore environmental concerns and proceed with a purchase, refuse to buy any such product, seek out a less damaging version like water in biodegradable bottles, and/or engage in offsetting/compensatory behavior such as donating to a charity. Understanding how consumers value these options is an important academic and management challenge. To address this, a stated choice experiment is employed. It considers the preferences of a representative sample of UK consumers for bottled water with the attributes: packaging (PET versus biodegradable), charity donation (environment/social/none), origin (domestic/foreign), and price. Data were analyzed using random parameter logit modeling, incorporating a latent variable into the model, which captured environmentally conscious behavior. Based on the model estimations, domestic origin, biodegradable packaging, and charity donations (both for environmental and social causes) positively affect decision-makers' perceived utility. In keeping with moral consistency theory, as consumers' level of nature relatedness and green consumption values increase, biodegradable packaging becomes more preferable than non-biodegradable packaging, and the likelihood of refusing to purchase any bottled water option, rises, respectively. In contrast, high levels of materialist values are associated with lower environmental consciousness. The paper provides evidence to managers regarding consumers' valuation of more environmentally friendly packaging, and strategies to increase uptake.