Biopolymers-Based Materials Containing Silver Nanoparticles as Active Packaging for Food Applications–A Review

Abstract

Packaging is an integral part of food products, allowing the preservation of their quality. It plays an important role, protecting the packed product from external conditions, maintaining food quality, and improving properties of the packaged food during storage. Nevertheless, commonly used packaging based on synthetic non-biodegradable polymers causes serious environmental pollution. Consequently, numerous recent studies have focused on the development of biodegradable packaging materials based on biopolymers. In addition, biopolymers may be classified as active packaging materials, since they have the ability to carry different active substances. This review presents the latest updates on the use of silver nanoparticles in packaging materials based on biopolymers. Silver nanoparticles have become an interesting component of biodegradable biopolymers, mainly due to their antimicrobial properties that allow the development of active food packaging materials to prolong the shelf life of food products. Furthermore, incorporation of silver nanoparticles into biopolymers may lead to the development of materials with improved physical-mechanical properties.

Pullulan Films Containing Rockrose Essential Oil for Potential Food Packaging Applications

“…There is growing worldwide interest in replacing petrochemical-based, synthetic plastic packaging with biodegradable, nontoxic and edible materials. This development of new packaging materials can benefit several industrial activities, particularly food production, distribution, commercialization and preservation [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. As potential replacements for conventional plastics, biopolymers such as polysaccharides, proteins and lipids can be applied for the sustainable development of packaging materials [ 2 , 3 , 4 ].…”

Polysaccharide and Protein Films with Antimicrobial/Antioxidant Activity in the Food Industry: A Review

“…The first method (in situ) involves the use of a biopolymer matrix as a reaction medium to form nanostructures, acting on them as a stabilising agent. The second method (ex situ) is used as a dispersion and stabilising medium for separately pre-synthesized nanostructures [66]. Biopolymers can also constitute a matrix for obtaining stable nanostructures, while eliminating the use of environmentally harmful solvents and reducing agents.…”

A review of silver nanoparticles in food packaging technologies: Regulation, methods, properties, migration, and future challenges

“…Another benefit of the use of inorganic materials in food packaging is also related to low effects on the sensory attributes in food. [28] In comparison, organic compounds, such as essential oils or plant extracts, that are commonly used in food packaging technology may strongly modify organoleptic properties of food products because of their strong odor and flavor. [29] Among existing inorganic nanomaterials, AgNPs have been intensively used in food packaging technology because of their antibacterial properties.…”