Antimicrobial edible films in food packaging: Current scenario and recent nanotechnological advancements- a review

Owing to the rising consumer awareness and demands for quality foods with eco-friendly packaging, researchers have shifted their focus to sustainable advancements in active packaging systems that preserve food quality and sensory characteristics over time. The inclusion of antimicrobial agents into the biopolymer-based edible films has been a significant advancement in active food packaging technology. It is exceptionally efficient in inhibiting or killing the pathogenic/spoilage microbes causing food contamination. It can reduce the potential undesirable flavors produced due to the direct incorporation of active compounds in foods. The efficiency of synergism of antimicrobial bio-based packaging systems has been further enhanced by applying nanotechnological concepts such as bio-nanocomposites and nanoencapsulation systems. This review analyzes the current scenario and applications of antimicrobial biodegradable films in the food packaging industry while highlighting the ongoing research investigations on the implementation of nanotechnology to develop novel bio-based packaging systems.