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Multifunctional Bio-Based Packaging for Perishable Foods: Structural Design, Scalable Fabrication, and Versatile
Lei Zhang1, Jiaqi Zhang2, Mei Cui1
1State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and Low-Carbon Technology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Membrane Science and Desalination Technology, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|May 5, 2026
Summary
Novel bio-based packaging integrates preservation and sensing, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional methods. This approach enhances food safety and reduces waste by providing real-time quality monitoring and extended shelf life.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Food Science and Technology
- Sustainable Packaging Solutions
Background:
- Food loss and safety are critical global issues, with conventional methods being energy-intensive and slow.
- Current preservation and detection techniques lack efficiency and immediacy.
- There is a need for advanced packaging solutions to address these challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements (2020-2025) in multifunctional bio-based packaging.
- To synthesize design principles for integrating preservation and sensing functions.
- To propose a framework for next-generation bio-based packaging.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on radiative cooling, modified atmosphere packaging, active platforms, intelligent sensing labels, and superhydrophobic surfaces.
- Analysis of design principles through a structure-transport-function lens.
- Definition of integration paradigms and standardized benchmarking for shelf-life extension.
Main Results:
- Multifunctional bio-based packaging integrates preservation and quality monitoring.
- Advances in radiative cooling, modified atmosphere packaging, and intelligent sensing are highlighted.
- Standardized methods for comparison and assessment of translation readiness are proposed.
Conclusions:
- Next-generation bio-based packaging offers dynamic preservation and sensing capabilities.
- A proposed framework guides development towards safer, sustainable, and waste-minimized food systems.
- Scalable manufacturing and rigorous validation are crucial for market translation.
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