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Nanocellulose in food packaging: A review
Sandeep S Ahankari1, Aditya R Subhedar1, Swarnim S Bhadauria1
1School of Mechanical Engineering, VIT University, Vellore, TN, 632014, India.
Carbohydrate Polymers
|January 13, 2021
Summary
Nanocellulose (NC) shows promise as a sustainable, biodegradable alternative for food packaging, offering enhanced properties. Further research is needed to overcome challenges for commercial use in active and responsive packaging applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Food Science
Background:
- Growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging materials.
- Limitations of conventional synthetic packaging films.
- Increasing interest in nanocellulose (NC) as a biodegradable alternative.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research on nanocellulose for food packaging applications.
- To explore the use of NC and its treatments in nanocomposites.
- To assess the impact of NC on packaging performance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific research on nanocellulose in packaging.
- Analysis of chemico-physical treatments of NC.
- Evaluation of NC's integration into bio/polymer matrices.
Main Results:
- Nanocellulose-based materials demonstrate promising properties for food packaging.
- NC enhances barrier, thermo-mechanical, rheological, and anti-bacterial characteristics.
- NC shows potential for active packaging (AP), controlled release packaging (CRP), and responsive packaging (RP).
Conclusions:
- Nanocellulose is a viable and sustainable material for advanced food packaging.
- Further research and development are crucial for commercialization.
- Addressing current challenges will unlock the full potential of NC in sustainable packaging.

