Emerging Trends in Food Packaging: Innovations, Sustainability, and Future Perspectives

Abstract

The global food packaging industry is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by environmental concerns, evolving consumer preferences, and the need for enhanced food preservation. This review explores cutting-edge innovations in sustainable packaging, including biodegradable, edible, and recyclable materials; active and intelligent systems incorporating oxygen scavengers, antimicrobial agents, and freshness sensors; and advanced technologies such as nanotechnology, 3D printing, and AI-integrated smart packaging. The importance of packaging in lowering food waste, increasing shelf life, guaranteeing food safety, and facilitating real-time tracking and traceability is highlighted. Additionally, the study addresses challenges related to regulatory compliance, environmental impact, consumer