Antimicrobial Surfaces for Reusable Food Packaging: A Comprehensive Review of Functionality and Suitability

With the recent introduction of the European Union's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) in February 2025, reusable plastic packaging schemes have gained increasing attention as a more circular and sustainable alternative to single-use plastics (SUPs). However, a major barrier to the widescale adoption of these schemes lies in ensuring effective sanitization and disinfection after each reuse cycle. The risk of cross-contamination between use cycles presents the hazard of foodborne illness, which could undermine consumer trust and result in nonengagement with such systems. Antimicrobial surfaces represent a promising solution for enhancing the microbial safety and improving the cleanability of reusable packaging. These surfaces are designed to inhibit the growth and survival of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi that contribute to food spoilage and foodborne illness. Their integration into packaging systems could potentially improve consumer confidence and accelerate adoption by facilitating easier sanitization and reducing the risk of microbial cross-contamination. A range of strategies exists for fabricating antimicrobial surfaces, broadly categorized into chemical and physical approaches, each with distinct advantages and limitations in the context of food packaging. This review critically examines the functionality of these surface types and evaluates their potential for reusable food packaging applications.