Biopolymers, Bioplastics, and Carbon-Based Materials for Food Packaging

Recently several countries have taken strong measures against the use of disposable plastic in food packaging. Therefore, development of materials alternative to petroleum-based plastics becomes major research area. Biopolymer and carbon-based materials have been proven to be the sustainable alternative to conventional plastics due to their easy degradability and manufacturing, renewability, and eco-friendliness [1,2]. However, low mechanical and barrier properties limit its application in food packaging. Hence, the recent research works are focused on the development of biopolymers composited with other suitable nano structured materials or functionalized with different additives including metal nanoparticles, plasticizers and antimicrobials [3]. These additives in polymer matrix and carbon materials prevents the growth of microorganisms and oxidation of lipid molecules and thereby increasing the shelf life of food items [3]. Different strategies have been developed in recent years to synthesize these nanocomposites to increase interaction between the materials and polymer matrix and also to introduce antimicrobial and antioxidant properties [4]. In the present review, bioplastic and carbon-based materials and their composites for food packaging along with mechanisms of biodegradation have been discussed. This review also includes potentials, progress and challenges related to biopolymer, bioplastic and carbon-based materials to replace petroleum -based plastics.