Plastic Packaging Research Articles

The effect of Door-to-Door on separate collection of plastic packaging: evidence from Catalonia

AbstractIn this article, we estimate the causal effect of the Door-to-Door waste collection policy on the collection of plastic waste in Catalonia. We use municipality-level data on the share of separately collected light packaging and apply a Difference-in-Differences framework. We find that Door-to-Door increased the share of separated light packaging by 80% compared to untreated units at the end of the sample period. Furthermore, our evidence indicates that there are no differences of Door-to-Door designs with source-separation of light packaging from other recyclable waste components compared to those where light packaging waste is collected with other materials and separated post-source. These findings highlight that Door-to-Door can be a highly effective measure to increase separate collection of light packaging, a precondition for ambitious plastics recycling goals legislated by policy makers.

Development of Eco-Friendly Packaging Films from Soyhull Lignocellulose: Towards Valorizing Agro-Industrial Byproducts.

Due to their inability to biodegrade, petroleum-based plastics pose significant environmental challenges by disrupting aquatic, marine, and terrestrial ecosystems. Additionally, the widespread presence of microplastics and nanoplastics induces serious health risks for humans and animals. These pressing issues create an urgent need for designing and developing eco-friendly, biodegradable, renewable, and non-toxic plastic alternatives. To this end, agro-industrial byproducts such as soyhulls, which contain 29-50% lignocellulosic residue, are handy. This study extracted lignocellulosic residue from soyhulls using alkali treatment, dissolved it in ZnCl2 solution, and crosslinked it with calcium ions and glycerol to create biodegradable films. The film formulation was optimized using the Box-Behnken design, with response to tensile strength (TS), elongation at break (EB), and water vapor permeability (WVP). The optimized films were further characterized for color, light transmittance, UV-blocking capacity, water absorption, contact angle, and biodegradability. The resulting optimized film demonstrated a tensile strength of 10.4 ± 1.0 MPa, an elongation at break of 9.4 ± 1.8%, and a WVP of 3.5 ± 0.4 × 10-11 g·m-1·s-1·Pa-1. Importantly, 90% of the film degrades within 37 days at 24% soil moisture. This outcome underscores the potential of soyhull-derived films as a sustainable, innovative alternative to plastic packaging, contributing to the circular economy and generating additional income for farmers and allied industries.

Characterization of Protein-Based Edible film: A Study on Thickness, Gelation Time, and Microstructure with the Addition of Polyethylene Glycol

A protein-based edible film has the potential to serve as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plastics in food packaging. It can extend the shelf life of food products through natural means. The objective of this study was to characterise protein-based edible film with the addition of polyethylene glycol as a plasticiser, with a focus on three main aspects: namely, thickness, gelation time and microstructure. This study employed a completely randomised design comprising three treatments and three replicates. The treatments comprised the utilisation of varying concentrations of polyethylene glycol, designated as P1 (35%), P2 (40%), and P3 (45%). No significant difference (P>0.05) was observed between treatments in terms of thickness value and gelation time. The protein-based edible film exhibited thickness values that ranged from 0.075 to 0.124 mm, indicating compliance with the Japanese Industrial Standard. The gelation time required for the film ranged from 13.67 to 16.33 minutes. The microstructure of the whey-gelatin edible film with a high polyethylene glycol concentration exhibited irregularities on the film surface, characterised by porous areas and small cracks. These irregularities resulted in a weakening of the bond between protein molecules, leading to a looser and less dense microstructure during the drying process, which in turn caused the formation of pores and cracks. The optimal treatment, as determined by this study, is the utilisation of polyethylene glycol at a concentration of 35% with a thickness value of 0.075 mm, a gelation time of 13.67 minutes, and the generation of a more uniform and refined microstructure.

Sustainable Packaging Solutions: Food Engineering and Biodegradable Materials

In modern, fast-paced lifestyles, food containers have become a popular solution for quick meals; however, they have significantly contributed to the increase in plastic packaging waste, which poses a substantial environmental risk. The prevalent use of non-biodegradable plastic containers exacerbates plastic pollution, contradicting government regulations designed to reduce plastic usage and promote sustainability. To address these issues, this study integrates TRIZ, ergonomics, inherent safety, and universal design methodologies, with an emphasis on sustainability. First, the technical contradiction matrix from TRIZ is applied to identify parameters for improvement without inducing negative side effects. Ergonomics principles ensure the development of user-friendly designs, while inherent safety and universal design approaches aim for accessibility and full biodegradability. Through a systematic innovation design process, this research proposes a biodegradable food container capable of decomposing entirely into particles and water within one month, blending naturally with the soil without compromising functionality. Moreover, the container incorporates a quick-alignment mechanism and an intuitive sealing design that ensures airtightness and spill prevention. As a result, the product not only meets user demands but also addresses pressing environmental concerns, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Assessment of type and quantities of food and beverage plastic packaging: A case study.

Plastic pollution has been identified as one of the most pressing environmental issues of the 21st century, driven by excessive consumption and inadequate plastic waste management. This issue is particularly reflected in short lifespan of plastic products, particularly plastic packaging within the food and beverage (F&B) industry. Urgent and relevant policy actions are needed to promote plastic circularity and improve waste management practices. Developing countries such as Montenegro face significant challenges in managing plastic waste flows due to legal, institutional and infrastructural gaps. This research addresses these challenges by employing material flow analysis (MFA) and advanced techniques like artificial neural networks to estimate the quantities and types of plastic packaging used in the F&B sector in Montenegro. The findings reveal that over 21,300 tonnes of F&B plastic packaging were placed on the market in Montenegro in 2018. Approximately 11% of this amount ends up directly littered in the environment or dumpsites, whereas the remaining 89% is predominantly collected and deposited in controlled landfills. Detailed MFA models were developed separately for the eight most common polymer types used in the F&B sector, along with specific models for plastic bags and polyethene terephthalate bottles to explore closed-loop recycling systems. It was found that only a small fraction of all analysed types of plastic packaging placed on the market can be effectively treated and recycled. This research contributes to the understanding of plastic waste management in Montenegro and facilitates the formulation of effective strategies to mitigate plastic pollution in the F&B industry.

Synthesis and Characterization of Cellulose <i>Nata de Coco</i> Inserted Nanoparticles Zn-Moringa Leaf Extract (<i>Moringa oleifera</i>) as Biodegradable plastic Banan Fruit Packaging

Synthesis and characterization of cellulose nata de coco inserted nanoparticles of zinc-moringa leaf extract as biodegradable plastic for banana fruit packaging has been carried out. This study aims to determine the characteristics, biodegradability and preservation activity of biodegradable plastic cellulose nata de coco inserted zinc nanoparticles-moringa leaf extract. The research process was carried out through the nata de coco synthesis stage, zinc nanoparticle synthesis-moringa leaf extract and the manufacture of biodegradable plastics. The success of this synthesis is evidenced by being characterized using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer, FTIR spectrophotometer and digital optical microscope. The results of UV-Vis spectrophotometer analysis showed that the zinc nanoparticles formed had an estimated particle size of 85.72-92.92 nm and were stable. The results of FTIR analysis on Moringa leaf extract showed the presence of -OH, C-H, C=O, C=C and C-O groups. In the biodegradable plastic film nata de coco-NPZn-moringa leaf extract, there was a peak shift in several functional groups marked at the peaks of wavenumbers 555.50 and 432.05 cm-1 which are ZnZP groups. Characterization using a digital optical microscope showed that zinc nanoparticlesThe synthesis is spherical, non-uniform, and has been well distributed on the cellulose surface of nata de coco. Biodegradation test on nata de coco-NPZn-Moringa leaf extract biodegradable plastic film using activated sludge system, test results show biodegradable plastic can be degraded 100% for 15 days. Preservation activities show that packaged bananas are still able to survive up to 8 days of post-harvest storage period. These results show the effectiveness of biodegradable plastic preservation of nata de coco-NPZn-moringa leaf extract biodegradable plastic which is quite good.

Development of a Colloidal Gold Immunochromatographic Strip for Specific Detection of Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida.

Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida (Pdp) is characterised by high infectivity and mortality and wide distribution, resulting in substantial economic losses to the global aquaculture industry. Therefore, it is critical to develop a simple, rapid and accurate diagnostic method for Pdp detection. Herein, two Pdp-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs 1H7 and 6E6) were obtained, indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunofluorescence analysis confirmed that the mAbs specifically recognised the outer membrane of Pdp but could not recognise the other Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria, indicating good specificity. A colloidal gold immunochromatographic strip (CGICS) was developed here for Pdp detection by optimising the colloidal gold labeling and antibody coating conditions using 1H7 as a colloidal gold-labelled antibody and 6E6 as a coated antibody. The CGICS exhibited a detection limit of 1 × 105 CFU/mL for Pdp and a detection time of 10 min. Cross-reaction analysis revealed that the CGICS could specifically detect different Pdp isolates without cross-reaction with the other bacterial species or the subspecies P. damselae subsp. damselae. Stability analysis revealed that the CGICS were stored in closed plastic packaging at 25°C and 4°C for more than 8 months. The CGICS retained their detection limit after 6 months at 4°C, and 4 months at 25°C. Using tissues from the experimentally challenged Lateolabrax maculatus, the CGICS and polymerase chain reaction revealed a 100% coincidence rate. These findings indicated that the established CGICS exhibits high specificity and sensitivity. It is rapid and simple for Pdp detection, making it a potential on-site tool for Pdp detection in fish aquaculture.

Assessing consumer perceptions of sustainable packaging solutions

ABSTRACT Consumer concerns about food and plastic packaging waste have led government and industry to seek alternatives prioritizing the environment while keeping safety, quality, shelf-life, and price. These consumer concerns were examined with a focus on fabrication technologies, current and proposed applications, and consumer acceptance of edible coatings, biodegradable packaging, and nanomaterials. A survey (N = 441) analyzed responses by subpopulations (generation, location, education level, and food-related careers). Consumers prioritize quality (95%), price (83%), and nutritional value (74%), but willingness to consume and pay extra for them varied by generation and location. Younger consumers showed openness to new technologies, indicating an attractive potential niche market for edible coatings. Positive comments highlighted environmental, health, and shelf-life benefits, while concerns include aversion towards new technologies and health risks. Biodegradable packaging is widely accepted, presenting business opportunities to meet sustainable demands, though cost and quality worries remain. Addressing these concerns is crucial for broader adoption.

Upcycling of post-industrial multilayer plastic packaging waste through gasoline-equivalent hydrocarbon-targeted pyrolysis by an environmentally friendly catalyst

This study’s novelty lies in investigating the performance of calcined cement kiln dust (CCKD) as a new, low-cost catalyst in the flash pyrolysis of EVOH-containing multilayer plastic packaging waste (MLPW). An analytical pyrolyzer, connected with gas chromatographic separation and mass spectrometry detection (Py–GC/MS), was employed to investigate the catalytic pyrolysis of MLPW. Py-GC/MS experiments have shown that condensable volatiles from catalytic pyrolysis of MLPW exhibit higher yields of aromatics (24.7 %) and cyclic aliphatic compounds (26.3 %). The catalytic pyrolysis of MLPW yields C5–C12 hydrocarbons (76.2 %), while the non-catalytic conversion yields C8–C24 hydrocarbons (95.4 %). These results underscore the efficacy of catalytic pyrolysis in recovering gasoline-range hydrocarbons from MLPW, selectively enhancing the yield of cyclic aliphatics and aromatic compounds. Thus, within the circular economy’s horizon, flash pyrolysis can be scaled up to process large amounts of MLPW using CCKD as a low-cost catalyst, converting MLPW into a potential gasoline-range transportation fuel.

Plasticized cellulose bioplastics with beeswax for the fabrication of multifunctional, biodegradable active food packaging

Plasticized cellulose bioplastics with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties were prepared by blending cellulose and glycerol in a mixture of trifluoroacetic acid and trifluoroacetic anhydride, adding a solution of beeswax in chloroform, and subsequent drop-casting. Optical, chemical, structural, mechanical, thermal, and hydrodynamic properties were fully characterized. In addition, the biodegradability in seawater was investigated by determination of the biological oxygen demand. The incorporation of beeswax ruled out the transparency and UV blocking, modified the main mechanical parameters, and improved the thermal stability and the antioxidant capacity, as well as the hydrodynamic and barrier properties. In general, these features were comparable to those of common petroleum-based food packaging plastics. Such changes were explained by the incorporation of beeswax into the polymer matrix, as determined by infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. These cellulose-beeswax bioplastics were evaluated as viable food packaging materials by determination of the overall migration by using Tenax® as a dry food simulant, oxygen permeability at different relative humidities, measurement of antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus, and through preservation of fresh-cut pear slices, showing results similar to those obtained by using low-density polyethylene.

Sustainable Approach for Degradation of Low-Density Polyethylene Plastic Waste Using Ligninolytic White Rot Fungus.

Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor is used in manufacturing of polycarbonate plastics for food-drink packaging. In the present study, optimized set of conditions to degrade commercial grade BPA has been used and applied in degrading shredded leached low-density polyethylene (LDPE) residues and its leachate (198 µg/L BPA) using white rot fungus Hypocrea lixii. One-at-a-time method showed maximum BPA degradation of 98.73 ± 0.02% with 190.1 ± 0.2 U/L laccase and 1913.2 ± 0.3 U/L lignin peroxidase in glucose-yeast extract-malt extract-peptone (GYMP) medium supplemented with 5% sawdust, mediators-CuSO4 (0.2 mM), veratryl alcohol (0.1 mM) and Tween 80 (0.1 mM). Three sets were prepared by dissolving these optimized nutritional components in leachates-A (only leachate), B (leached LDPE residues in leachate) and C (leached LDPE residues, sawdust in leachate). All sets showed 100% degradation in 5 days. Cracks and holes in degraded LDPE pieces was confirmed by SEM analysis and changes in functional groups by FTIR. Toxicity assay of treated leachate on soil microfauna revealed the elimination of BPA as it supported sufficient microbial growth of soil bacteria. Thus, the present process provides a sustainable solution for the management of LDPE with the possibility of using treated leachate for irrigation.

Forecasting of plastic packaging waste in Thailand using economic index data application

Population growth and urbanization used to be the only indicators of waste quantity in the past. This research forecasted plastic packaging waste with data from 2010 to 2022 using statistical methods for analysis and aimed to study 47 economic indexes that correlate with and influence the quantity of plastic packaging waste. The quantity of municipal solid waste is constantly increasing by approximately 25 million tons per year, with the quantity of plastic packaging waste having a similar proportion generated each year at 7.91–11.79%. This study observed that the quantity of plastic packaging waste had a Pearson correlation value with an economic index of more than 0.4 (R>0.4) at a significance level of 0.05. The economic index could additionally explain 52.2% of the changes in the quantity of plastic packaging waste, including the wholesale index for food, retail sales index for beverages, and sales index without a store, using the stepwise multiple regression method. The accurate forecasting of plastic packaging waste for use in the planning and design of management systems averaged 78.57%, including the fact that it could be forecasted simultaneously with forecasting economic index changes.

Zeolite Additives for Flexible Packaging Polymers: Current Status Review and Future Perspectives.

Zeolites are interesting inorganic additives that could be employed for plastic packaging applications. Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) are intensively used for packaging as they provide great performance at low cost, even though they have poor environmental sustainability and may be more valorized. Biodegradable polymers may therefore represent a more eco-friendly alternative, but still, they have limited applications due to their generally inferior properties. Therefore, this review focuses on the use of zeolites as additives for flexible packaging applications to mainly improve the mechanical and barrier properties of PE, PP, and some biodegradable polymers, possibly with antimicrobial and scavenging activities, by exploiting zeolites' cation exchange ability and adsorption properties. Film preparation and characterization have been investigated. The obtained enhancements regard generally higher gas barriers, elastic moduli, and strengths, along with thermal stability. Elongation at break decreased for all PE composites and tended to increase for other matrices. The use of zeolites as additives for polymer films is promising (mainly for biodegradable polymers); still, it requires overcoming some limiting drawbacks associated with the additive concentration and dispersion mainly due to matrix-additive incompatibility.

Impact of Packaging Materials and Storage Duration on the Physical Properties of Mantangan (Merremia peltata)-Based Complete Wafers

This study evaluated how packaging materials (PM) and storage duration (SD) influence the physical properties of mantangan-based complete wafers (MbCW). The MbCW formulation consisted of 44% Merremia peltata, 16% Brachiaria mutica, and 40% concentrate. Ingredients were ground (2 mm), homogenized, steamed, and pressed to produce wafers. A 4 × 3 factorial completely randomized design assessed four PM types (WP: no packaging, PL: plastic, CB: cardboard, PS: plastic sack) and three SD levels (30, 60, and 90 days). Statistical analyses revealed significant PM × SD interactions (p < 0.01) for moisture content, impact resistance, and water absorption. SD alone affected density, specific gravity, shrinkage, and fungal concentration. Moisture content and water absorption increased over time, while plastic packaging uniquely improved impact resistance with extended storage. Other packaging types showed decreased impact resistance. Plastic packaging demonstrated superior performance, preventing fungal growth for up to 90 days, with only 1.06% mould at this time, compared to 4.43% without packaging. The effective shelf lives were 57, 54, 53, and 43 days for PL, CB, PS, and WP, respectively. In conclusion, plastic was the optimal packaging material for MbCW storage.

Green Packaging Material Preferences among Young Chinese Consumers: A Comparative Study of Recycled versus Virgin Papers and Bio-based versus Synthetic Materials

Abstract Increasing the use of recycled paper instead of virgin wood pulp paper and plastic in green packaging has the potential to alleviate the current pressure on wood supplies, reduce the carbon footprint of consumer goods, and improve the sustainable development of the forest industry. Exploring how consumers’ environmental, carbon, and health concerns influence their preferences for different layers of green paper products can provide theoretical guidance for enhancing resource utilization and promoting sustainable development of the forest products market. This study aimed to identify consumer perceptions of green attributes, assess the impact of environmental and carbon concerns on green product preferences, and examine the significance of paper materials in various packaging layers. Utilizing conjoint, factor, and regression analyses, we investigated young Chinese consumers’ green packaging preferences, focusing on their prioritization of packaging types and the choice between recycled and regular paper over fossil-based materials. The results indicate that consumers prefer green attributes in food packaging, such as recycled paper, paper-based substitutes for plastic, and corn fiber substitutes for nylon. However, recycled paper and virgin paper have no significant difference in consumer utility. For different layers, the preference for recycled paper was slightly higher for outer packaging than for inner packaging and packaging in direct contact with food. Cognitive and affective attitudes toward recycled paper material have a positive impact on both recycled paper and paper-based plastic substitutes, while environmental concern directly influences the choice of recycled paper, and carbon concern influences consumer preferences for paper-based plastic substitutes.

Bisphenol A in Indian Take-Out Soups: Compliance, Implications and Sustainable Solutions

This research investigates the migration of Bisphenol A (BPA) from packaging containers into take-out vegetable soups and premixed tomato soups through three replicate studies. The samples underwent extraction using solid-phase extraction (SPE) cartridges, followed by separation on a C18 column. BPA concentrations in the soups were assessed at 15, 30, and 45-minute intervals, consistently revealing undetectable levels (<LOQ). Plastic packaging samples, known for BPA utilization in production, remained below the Specific Migration Limit (SML) set at 0.5 mg.kg-1, irrespective of material type or contact conditions. These results, conforming to EC regulations, suggest that food-contact materials (FCMs) in the Indian market pose no apparent health hazards during initial use. The absence of detectable BPA levels is attributed to the limited time-temperature relationship during the study. However, caution is warranted as BPA migration can occur with repeated use, emphasizing the importance of considering material quality and intended use of FCMs. The study underscores the significance of understanding BPA leaching under varied conditions, necessitating further research to explore long-term implications. Overall, the findings provide valuable insights for regulators, manufacturers, and consumers, contributing to the ongoing discourse on food safety and using plastic materials in food packaging.

Reforming plastic packaging regulation: Outcomes from stakeholder interviews and regulatory analysis

Reforming plastic packaging regulation: Outcomes from stakeholder interviews and regulatory analysis

Facile preparation of soybean protein-based oil-resistant paper for food packaging

The use of plastic packaging is harmful to the environment. Due to the advantages of degradability, renewability, and safety of paper packaging materials, replacing plastic with paper has received much attention. However, the poor oil resistance of traditional paper constrains its application. In this research, oil-resistant agent is prepared using soy protein isolate and montmorillonite through physical blending. This oil-resistant agent has advantages of low cost and food safety. Subsequently, food packaging oil-proof paper is obtained by coating the above-mentioned coating on paper. This oil-proof paper has good heat resistance, oil resistance (kit rating is 8/12) and mechanical properties. In addition, it is found that the optimal storage environment for the oil-proof paper. This study provides a feasible method for producing, biodegradable, and eco-friendly food packaging oil-proof paper.

Risk assessment of oligomers and potentially harmful chemical compounds from food packaging simulated using an invitro digestion model.

The objective of this study, PLASTOGEST, was to evaluate the risk associated with oligomers and other potentially harmful chemical compounds when consumed by humans through food. This research systematically reviewed existing literature and applies untargeted analysis to assess the fate of non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) and intentionally added substances (IAS) during invitro digestion. Polyethylene terephthalate and polybutylene terephthalate oligomers and simulation of real food conditions were used to evaluate migration and how these oligomers behave during invitro digestion. This approach, involving enzymes and digestive juices, measured bioavailable levels of these substances in humans. The analytical work, including sample preparation was performed at Aarhus University, whilst extraction and untargeted analysis using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography trap ion mobility spectroscopy time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-TIMS/TOF-MS), were performed at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. The EUFORA fellow gained insights into advanced analytical techniques and risk assessment, following specific EFSA guidelines. The study aimed to enhance our understanding on how plastic packaging materials might affect human health, potentially leading to more rigorous risk assessment frameworks.

Antimicrobial keratin-based sustainable food packaging films reinforced with citric acid-modified cellulose nanocrystals

Sustainable food packaging films play a crucial role in maintaining the freshness and quality of the food, while prioritizing environmental sustainability. In this paper, a transparent film with antibacterial properties and excellent tensile property was prepared utilizing keratin extracted from waste chicken feathers, combined with citric acid-modified cellulose nanocrystals (CNC-CA). The film exhibited an elongation at break of 209%, highlighting its substantial potential for food packaging applications and addressing the brittleness problem associated with keratin-based films. Microstructural analysis revealed that, the network formed by keratin and CNC-CA with the presence of extensive sliding hydrogen bonds and the transformation of keratin's secondary structure from α-helix to β-sheet were pivotal in enhancing the tensile strength of the Keratin/CNC-CA film. The citric acid not only act as crosslinkers, but also contribute to the sustained antimicrobial and antioxidant capabilities of the prepared Keratin/CNC-CA film, eliminating the need for adding chemically synthesized antimicrobial agents. The high stretchability of the Keratin/CNC-CA film facilitates the secure packaging of loose food items, effectively preserving freshness by minimizing air exposure, and could be degraded rapidly upon disposal, converting into organic fertilizer in the soil, and thereby mitigating the environmental problems induced by conventional plastic packaging films. This work highlights the great potential of waste biomass-derived material keratin in preparation of functional films with antibacterial property, offering promising application prospects in food packaging contexts.