Research Progress on Cereal Protein-Based Films: A Review.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Food Science
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Growing concerns over plastic pollution and food safety drive demand for biodegradable materials.
• Cereal proteins (wheat gluten, zein, rice, oat) are promising for biodegradable packaging due to hydrophobicity and film-forming properties.
• Pure cereal protein films face limitations in stability and functionality, necessitating performance enhancement strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the fabrication processes of cereal protein-based films.
• To highlight the role of additives in improving film performance.
• To discuss novel technologies and applications in food packaging.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on cereal protein film fabrication.
• Analysis of additive interactions (plasticizers, biopolymers, nanoparticles, bioactive ingredients, indicators).
• Summary of fabrication methods: casting, extrusion, electrospinning, 3D printing.
• Discussion of novel technologies: ultrasonic, cold plasma, high-pressure treatment.

Main Results:

• Cereal protein films can be fabricated using various methods like casting, extrusion, electrospinning, and 3D printing.
• Additives significantly enhance the properties and functionality of cereal protein films.
• Novel technologies like ultrasonic, cold plasma, and high-pressure treatments improve film performance.
• Cereal protein films show potential in active and smart food packaging.

Conclusions:

• Cereal protein-based films offer a viable, biodegradable alternative to conventional plastics in food packaging.
• Further research is needed to address stability and safety challenges for widespread application.
• These films hold significant development potential for sustainable and functional food packaging solutions.