Advances in Biodegradable Food Packaging Using Wheat-Based Materials: Fabrications and Innovations, Applications,...

Area of Science:

• Food Science & Technology
• Materials Science
• Sustainable Engineering

Background:

• Conventional single-use plastics pose environmental challenges.
• Wheat is a globally abundant cereal crop with versatile components like starch, gluten, and fiber.
• There is a growing demand for sustainable and biodegradable food packaging solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore advancements in biodegradable food packaging materials derived from wheat.
• To review fabrication processes and applications of wheat-based packaging.
• To identify challenges and future trends in this field.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on wheat-based material fabrication.
• Analysis of solvent casting and extrusion techniques for wheat materials.
• Evaluation of studies on the application of wheat-based packaging in food preservation.

Main Results:

• Wheat-based materials effectively enhance food shelf life and quality.
• Innovations show success in maintaining food quality, managing moisture, and offering microbiological protection.
• Key challenges include optimizing moisture content and improving interfacial adhesion in composite materials.

Conclusions:

• Wheat-based biodegradable packaging presents a promising sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.
• Further research is needed to overcome current limitations and fully realize the potential of these materials.
• Future trends point towards enhanced functionality and wider adoption of wheat-derived packaging solutions.