Nanocomposite Film for Food Packaging: Opening Doors to Future Applications

Abstract

There is a growing interest in the development of polymer nanocomposite for various industries due to their excellent properties. This interest has been driven by consumer concerns, especially in food industry due to foodborne diseases. Incorporating synthetic antimicrobial agents directly into food packaging is an effective approach to inhibit the growth and survival of various microorganisms. It improves the quality of the food, extend shelf life and prevent or delay the food spoilage because it provides a barrier that can prevent the growth of food-borne pathogens. Metal and metal oxide based nanoparticles that is incorporated in polymer matric elicit antibacterial properties through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), metal ion and radicals that are able to target physical structures, metabolic pathways and DNA synthesis of prokaryotic cells leading to cell death. This chapter illustrated a critical review of killing mechanism of metal and metal nanoparticles against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The latest challenges and new directions for future research in these polymer nanocomposites are elaborated also.