Comparative Analysis of Biodegradable and Edible Food Packaging Materials Derived from Natural Ingredients

Abstract

The conventional method of packaging utilizes petrochemical polymers that result in pollution. Edible polymers, also known as green polymers, are an integral part of food items that can be consumed and biodegraded, preserving and wrapping the food item for storage and transportation. The edible food packaging materials has attracted consumers with their potential to overcome the challenges faced by polyethylene packs. However, Shelf life, antibacterial, antimicrobial, tensile strength and elongation at break of the edible films need to be assessed to commercialize. Natural ingredients with nourishing nutrients will also satisfy the non-poison packages for the food items. Natural raw materials used in the past studies to cast edible films are reviewed to find the most suitable packaging material. This paper aims to analyze various aspects of three different edible and biodegradable films and open up areas for further study.