The ASTM E96 Standard Method for determining water vapor permeability (WVP) was modified for hydrophilic edible films. Accurate measurement of relative humidity conditions and maintenance of 152 m/min air speeds were essential outside the test cups. The WVP Correction Method was developed to account for the water vapor partial pressure gradient in stagnant air layer of the test cup. Errors were as high as 35% without this correction. Applying these guidelines explained commonly observed thickness effects on WVP values of hydrophilic films. Relative humidity was the cause of observed thickness effects.

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An integrated approach for evaluation of the oxygen permeability and tensile properties of plasticized whey protein-based edible films was developed. Relative humidity had an exponential effect on the oxygen permeability of whey protein films. The increase in oxygen permeability caused by increasing concentrations of glycerol was greater than that of sorbitol. Increasing concentrations of both glycerol and sorbitol resulted in significantly decreased tensile strength and increased elongation. Sorbitol was more effective than glycerol as a plasticizer in that films of equal tensile strength, elongation, and elastic modulus had lower oxygen permeabilities when plasticized using sorbitol. The oxygen permeability and tensile properties of whey protein-based films compared favorably with those of other protein and synthetic film materials.

Increasing interest in high-quality food products with increased shelf life and reduced environmental impact has encouraged the study and development of edible and/or biodegradable polymer films and coatings. Edible films provide the opportunity to effectively control mass transfer among different components in a food or between the food and its surrounding environment. The diversity of proteins that results from an almost limitless number of side-chain amino-acid sequential arrangements allows for a wide range of interactions and chemical reactions to take place as proteins denature and cross-link during heat processing. Proteins such as wheat gluten, corn zein, soy protein, myofibrillar proteins, and whey proteins have been successfully formed into films using thermoplastic processes such as compression molding and extrusion. Thermoplastic processing can result in a highly efficient manufacturing method with commercial potential for large-scale production of edible films due to the low moisture levels, high temperatures, and short times used. Addition of water, glycerol, sorbitol, sucrose, and other plasticizers allows the proteins to undergo the glass transition and facilitates deformation and processability without thermal degradation. Target film variables, important in predicting biopackage performance under various conditions, include mechanical, thermal, barrier, and microstructural properties. Comparisons of film properties should be made with care since results depend on parameters such as film-forming materials, film formulation, fabrication method, operating conditions, testing equipment, and testing conditions. Film applications include their use as wraps, pouches, bags, casings, and sachets to protect foods, reduce waste, and improve package recyclability.