Integration of Green Nanomaterials in Food Packaging

Abstract

This chapter reviews the application of green nanomaterials in food packaging, emphasizing improving physicochemical properties, enhancing food safety and shelf life, and minimizing environmental impact. While conventional food packaging protects foods against environmental conditions, they usually rely on non-renewable resources and lead to environmental pollution. Emerging nanotechnology and its incorporation with food packaging offer functional food packaging with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and sensing abilities along with improved barriers and mechanical properties that result in higher quality food and an extended shelf life. Focus is on green synthesis of nanomaterials, especially biological methods using plants and microorganisms due to their low energy consumption, avoiding toxic