Sustentabilidade quanto às embalagens de alimentos no Brasil

Abstract

Change of habits and increasing consumerism observed in the recent decades have widely influenced technological innovations, as well as the growth of consumer goods production, which has consequently required a crescent packaging production. Packages are used in diverse sectors, among them the food industry stand out, in which their main functions are to contribute to food conservation and selling the product. Different materials, such as plastics, metals, glass and paper, have been used in the food packaging production. Each material has different attributes that help to conserve the product: gas, aroma, light, water barrier, microorganisms and mechanical strength are the main ones. Despite the several advantages of its application, its uncontrolled use and disposal result in a large volume of solid residues and environmental impact. Concerning this situation, alternative practices, such as reuse and development of biodegradable and green polymers, have been considered in order to reduce the impacts.