Halloysite Nanotube as a Functional Material for Active Food Packaging Application: A Review

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Food Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are natural nanomaterials with high aspect ratios.
• Their properties include high surface area, thermal stability, and biocompatibility.
• HNTs are suitable for active food packaging applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review HNTs as functional additives in active food packaging.
• To discuss modifications of HNTs and their impact on packaging properties.
• To evaluate benefits and challenges of HNTs in food packaging.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on HNTs in food packaging.
• Analysis of HNT modification techniques (physical, chemical, biological, electrostatic).
• Evaluation of HNTs' performance in antimicrobial, ethylene scavenging, and barrier packaging.

Main Results:

• HNTs improve antimicrobial, ethylene scavenging, and barrier functions in food packaging.
• Various modification methods impact HNT properties and performance.
• HNT incorporation offers enhanced food packaging properties and extended shelf life.

Conclusions:

• Modified HNTs are key to developing advanced active food packaging.
• HNTs present significant potential for improving food preservation and safety.
• Further research into HNT modification can unlock novel packaging solutions.