Bioplastics in food packaging: A systematic review of consumer perceptions, systemic and communication challenges,...

Bioplastic food packaging is a promising yet complex alternative to conventional plastics. While consumers often express positive attitudes and some willingness to pay, widespread misconceptions remain around key terms such as "bio-based," "biodegradable," and "compostable." These misunderstandings, along with inconsistent labeling, fragmented waste management systems, and exposure to greenwashing, hinder proper disposal practices and risk eroding consumer trust. This review examines the existing body of consumer research on bioplastic food packaging. It identifies a critical gap in how current studies frequently overlook consumer misconceptions in their research design, leading to oversimplified conclusions that are not adequate for guiding effective interventions. The review calls for a more nuanced and realistic examination of consumer knowledge, systemic constraints, and actual disposal behaviors. The review finds that future research must explicitly address consumer misunderstandings, systemic constraints, and real-world disposal behaviors to generate actionable insights for policy, communication, and industry strategy. Ultimately, bioplastics can only realize their potential within a circular economy if consumer behavior, communication practices, and infrastructure are studied and addressed in an integrated manner.