The Role of Active Packaging in the Defense Against Foodborne Pathogens with Particular Attention to Bacteriophages

The increasing demand for food safety and the need to combat emerging foodborne pathogens have driven the development of innovative packaging solutions. Active packaging, particularly those incorporating antimicrobial agents, has emerged as a promising approach to enhance food preservation and safety. Among these agents, bacteriophages (phages) have gained significant attention due to their specificity, efficacy, and natural origin. This manuscript explores the role of active packaging in protecting against foodborne pathogens, with a particular focus on bacteriophages. The review overviews recent advances in antimicrobials in food packaging, followed by a detailed discussion of bacteriophages, including their classification, mode of action, multidisciplinary applications, and their use as antimicrobial agents in active food packaging. The manuscript also highlights commercially available bacteriophage-based products and addresses the challenges and limitations associated with their integration into packaging materials. Despite their potential, issues such as stability, regulatory hurdles, and consumer acceptance remain critical considerations. In conclusion, bacteriophages represent a promising tool in active packaging for enhancing food safety, but further research and innovation are needed to overcome existing barriers and fully realize their potential in the food industry.