Structural and rheological properties of ulvan polysaccharides and their potential for food packaging applications

Ulvan, a sulfated polysaccharide extracted from green algae, has garnered interest due to its unique structure, rheological behavior, and diverse biological activities, making it a promising material for industrial applications. In food packaging, ulvan-based films offer significant advantages, including improved mechanical strength, thermal stability, biodegradability, and inherent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, positioning ulvan as an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic materials. However, comprehensive evaluations of ulvan's effects on food packaging film properties remain limited. This study aims to investigate the structural and rheological characteristics of ulvan, focusing on its impact on microstructure, mechanical performance, thermal stability, antioxidant and antimicrobial functionality, and biodegradability. Additionally, it explores the regulatory challenges associated with ulvan's incorporation into food packaging systems and its current industrial applications. By addressing these aspects, this work seeks to bridge existing knowledge gaps and support the development of ulvan as a sustainable material for food packaging.