Polysaccharides-based bionanocomposites for food packaging applications

Abstract

The use of plastic packaging material goes on increasing due to its high mechanical, oxygen barrier, and water vapor barrier properties. However, it lacks biodegradability and environmental compatibility. Biopolymers like polysaccharides can be used to solve such environmental hazards due to their non-biodegradability and toxicity. Besides these advantages, polysaccharides also have some disadvantages such as poor mechanical properties and low resistance to water. Hence, nanomaterials are promising reinforcing candidates to enhance the mechanical, thermal, and gas barrier properties without hampering their biodegradable and non-toxic characters. In the present chapter, different explanations are included to improve the properties responsible for packaging applications of these biopolymers. The focus of this chapter highlights the use of various polysaccharides-based bionanocomposites for food packaging applications. The combining study of different plant- and animal-based bionanocomposites in one chapter may explore a new idea for eco-friendly and future materials for food packaging.