Development of natural aggregation-induced emission materials as functional fillers in food packaging: A...

Advanced food packaging can effectively inhibit food spoilage and address food safety concerns. Natural aggregation-induced emission (AIE) materials hold significant development potential in food packaging. This review presents the first comprehensive overview of the latest research advancements and development prospects of natural AIE materials as functional fillers in food packaging applications. Natural AIE materials used in food packaging have fluorescent characteristics, antimicrobial activities, and antioxidant activities. Natural AIE materials and their derivatives function as antimicrobial agents, antioxidants, intelligent indicators, ultraviolet screening agents, and photo-crosslinking agents in food packaging. Their incorporation enhances the preservation effects of packaging materials for fruits and meat products, also provides them with freshness indication capabilities for high-protein foods. The natural AIE materials are considered safe, but their development in food packaging still faces challenges. This review will provide insights for the further development of natural AIE materials in food packaging research.