Recent Advances in Functional Cellulose-based Films with Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties for Food Packaging

Abstract

The packaging of food plays a crucial role in food preservation worldwide. However, traditional packaging systems are passive layers with weak efficiency in protecting the food quality. Therefore, packaged foods are gradually spoiled due to the oxidation and growth of microorganisms. Additionally, most of the commercial packaging films are made of petroleum-based materials which raise environmental concerns. Accordingly, the development of eco-friendly natural-derived active packaging systems has increased the attention of scientists. Cellulose as the most abundant polysaccharide on earth with high biocompatibility, no toxicity, and high biodegradability has extensively been applied for the fabrication of packaging films. However, neat cellulose-based films lack antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Therefore, neat cellulose-based films are passive films with weak food preservation performance. Active films have been developed by incorporating antioxidants and antimicrobial agents into the films. In this review, we have explored the latest research on the fabrication of antimicrobial/antioxidant cellulose-based active packaging films by incorporating natural extracts, natural polyphenols, nanoparticles, and microparticles into the cellulose-based film formulations. We categorized these types of packaging films into two main groups: (i) blend films which are obtained by mixing solutions of cellulose with other soluble antimicrobial/antioxidant agents such as natural extracts and polyphenols; and (ii) composite films which are fabricated by dispersing antimicrobial/antioxidant nano- or microfillers into the cellulose solution. The effect of these additives on the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the films has been explained. Additionally, the changes in the other properties of the films such as hydrophilicity, water evaporation rate, and mechanical properties have also been briefly addressed.

Advancements in Hybrid Cellulose-Based Films: Innovations and Applications in 2D Nano-Delivery Systems

“…• Liability Issues: The liability for unintended consequences arising from the release of hybrid cellulose-based materials depends on regulatory compliance, product safety assessments, and the legal framework governing environmental protection and public health [150].…”

“…• Biomedical Applications: Cellulose-based hydrogels and scaffolds have been successfully used in tissue engineering and wound healing, with ongoing research focused on enhancing their drug delivery capabilities [150].…”

“…FDA Approval: To date, several cellulose-based products have been approved by regulatory agencies such as the FDA for various applications, including wound dressings and food packaging. However, specific hybrid cellulose-based materials are still undergoing extensive testing and evaluation to meet safety and efficacy standards for medical and pharmaceutical applications [150].…”

“…The development of hybrid cellulose-based materials with enhanced properties is an active area of research, with potential future commercialization [150].…”

“…However, the integration of nonbiodegradable nanomaterials in hybrid films may raise concerns about their impact on ecosystems. Ongoing research aims to assess and mitigate potential environmental risks associated with these materials [150].…”