Progress and roles of lignosulfonates in food active packaging design: A review

Lignosulfonate is a lignin derivative fabricated through the sulfite pulping process of lignocellulosic fiber. Functional groups in the structure influence their biological activity. This article reviewed the lignosulfonate's impact on the food active packaging properties. The polar and non-polar compounds in their structure result in amphiphilic properties, impacting their interaction and dispersion in the materials. In the packaging matrix, incorporating lignosulfonate can accelerate the mechanical strength and barrier to water vapor and oxygen, depending on the concentration. In general, lignosulfonates have an impact on reducing the solubility of packaging composites solubility in water. Its antioxidant strength can minimize the food oxidation risk through reactive radical species scavenging activity, ultraviolet (UV) light exposure barrier, and oxygen scavenging. Their potent antimicrobial activity can reduce food damage from spoilage by pathogenic microorganisms. Overall, the packaging enriched with lignosulfonate has promise in designing multifunctional and sustainable packaging to prolong the shelf life of fruits and lipid-containing foods. Future applications must consider: i) Regulatory safety aspects related to toxicity, ii) Lignosulfonate effects on protein foods, and iii) Potential inactivation of beneficial microbes for food product development. The limitations of this review have also been presented.