Recent advances: How bioactive agents combine with packaging systems to impact preservation effects

Area of Science:

• Food Science and Technology
• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Active packaging is crucial for extending food shelf-life and maintaining quality.
• Bioactive agents incorporated into packaging offer enhanced preservation functionalities.
• Understanding agent-material interactions is key to optimizing performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review advancements in food active packaging over the last five years.
• To analyze the benefits and drawbacks of combining bioactive agents with various packaging systems.
• To explore interaction mechanisms and their impact on packaging functions.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of research published in the last five years.
• Analysis of bioactive agent-packaging material combinations and their safety profiles.
• Exploration of interaction mechanisms, functional impacts, and application effects.

Main Results:

• Identified key technical considerations for matching bioactive agents with specific packaging types.
• Detailed optimal incorporation strategies for diverse food preservation requirements.
• Established a systematic selection framework based on physicochemical properties and functional needs.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a scientific basis for developing innovative and efficient active packaging systems.
• Offers a theoretical reference for the precise design and application of active packaging.
• Highlights the importance of understanding agent-material interactions for effective food preservation.