A Comprehensive Review on Edible Packaging on Sustainable Food System

Abstract

This review explores about edible packaging on sustainable food system. In recent years, edible coatings and films have drawn a lot of attention. There are clear benefits to using polysaccharide, lipid, and protein-based materials (and their composites) in edible packaging over synthetic films. It might help lessen the pollution in the environment. The primary benefit of edible films over synthetic ones is that they may be safely consumed as a component of food products and improve the shelf life of fresh goods while also being environmentally beneficial. In comparison to the more conventional non-environmentally friendly packaging materials, edible films can potentially replace synthetic polymer films by acting as barriers that minimize complexity and improve packaging materials' recyclability. Edible films are typically treated with plaster increase their pliability and resilience. Edible packaging materials are treated with antioxidants to slow down the pace of oxidation reactions. One of the important new uses for edible coatings is to extend the shelf life of food products by acting as carriers of antifungal and antibacterial chemicals. They are also employed as nutrient transporters to raise the final processed food products' nutritious content. Research is needed on the potential uses of edible films as smart packaging, as this technology is still in its infancy. Expanding its use in industry will be a packaging breakthrough industry.