Gallic Acid Based Polymers for Food Preservation: A Review

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Food Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Non-biodegradable plastics in food packaging pose environmental risks.
• Natural biopolymers (polysaccharides, proteins, polyesters) are explored for sustainable packaging.
• Gallic acid (GA), a phenolic compound, enhances biopolymer properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the antioxidant and antibacterial capabilities of gallic acid (GA)-incorporated biodegradable food packaging.
• To highlight GA-based active packaging as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional plastics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on gallic acid's properties and applications in food packaging.
• Analysis of studies demonstrating GA's impact on food preservation.

Main Results:

• Gallic acid exhibits potent antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals.
• GA demonstrates significant antimicrobial activity against various bacteria.
• GA-based packaging inhibits lipid oxidation, enzymatic browning, and microbial growth.
• Effectively retards ripening and extends shelf life for diverse food products (fruits, nuts, meats, fish).

Conclusions:

• Gallic acid-incorporated biodegradable packaging is a promising sustainable solution.
• GA enhances the functionality of biopolymer-based food packaging.
• These active packaging systems offer effective food preservation and reduced environmental impact.