High-performance ethyl cellulose composite films: Innovations in functional enhancement for sustainable food...

Ethyl cellulose (EC), a hydrophobic and biodegradable polymer, has gained prominence in sustainable food packaging due to its tunable properties and functional compounds. This review systematically explores advancements in EC-based composite films, emphasizing performance enhancement through polymer blending and processing innovations. By blending EC with hydrophilic biopolymers (e.g., konjac glucomannan, gelatin) and integrating antimicrobial agents (plant polyphenols, essential oils, silver nanoparticles), researchers have achieved films with superior mechanical strength, moisture resistance, and active preservation capabilities. Techniques such as electrospinning and solvent casting enable tailored microstructures, while smart systems incorporating pH-sensitive anthocyanins or gas sensors offer real-time freshness monitoring. Despite challenges in scalability and biodegradation kinetics, EC composites demonstrate exceptional versatility in balancing sustainability with functionality. This work highlights EC's potential as a cornerstone material for next-generation packaging solutions that address food safety, shelf-life extension, and environmental concerns through multifunctional design.