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Updated: Jul 22, 2025

Isolation of Native Soil Microorganisms with Potential for Breaking Down Biodegradable Plastic Mulch Films Used in Agriculture
Published on: May 10, 2013
Role of biotechnology in the advancement of biodegradable polymers and functionalized additives for food packaging
Oluwafemi J Caleb1, Zinash A Belay2
1Department of Food Science, Faculty of AgriSciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa; Africa Institute for Postharvest Technology, Faculty of AgriSciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa.
Abstract:
Biodegradable polymers have shown enormous potential for application in food packaging systems and offer solutions to mitigate the challenges of single-use plastics. Over the past decade, advances in fermentation technology, metabolic engineering of microorganisms, and synthetic biology have enabled the optimization and functionalization of biodegradable polymers for food packaging application. This article provides an overview of the biotechnological approaches/methods used in advancing the production of biopolymers and summarizes the recent developments in the application of functionalized biopolymers for decision-making and quality control. It discusses the current applications and future perspectives of extracellular biopolymers in food systems. Finally, this review highlights the complexities of public acceptance, safety, and government regulations and legislations.
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