Review of recent advancements in starch modification: Improving the functionality of starch-based films

Starch-based materials have been gained popularity as top among the most sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics due to their structural and functional diversity. However, the full potential and applicability of films derived from native starch in food packaging, as well as in other non-food applications, is limited by their inferior mechanical strength, thermal stability and barrier properties. Consequently, various scientific and industrial efforts have since been focused on modifying starch at the molecular level to circumvent these shortcomings and improve their functionality in material science. Thus, in this systematic review, the recent advancements in the chemical, physical and biological approaches of modifying starch structure, for enhanced film formation and bioplastic production were critical analysed. In recognition of the fact that the industrial utilization of starch is also impeded by their food use which creates a composite demand, various alternative sources of starch vis a vis, the underutilized sources, agricultural residues and algae, were also part of the discourse. This paper also explored the current industrial applications of starch-based films, including as packaging, adhesives, agricultural practice and drug delivery. Finally, the challenges to the real-time utilization of these innovative materials and possible solutions to be considered in the future were highlighted.