Scientists create biodegradable food film

A pioneering research group in São Paulo state, Brazil, has developed a solution to tackle the global plastic waste crisis while preserving food freshness. They have created a biodegradable film, derived from limonene found in citrus fruit peel and chitosan from crustacean exoskeletons, offering a sustainable alternative for food packaging.

Petroleum-based packaging materials have resulted in massive plastic accumulation in landfills and oceans, necessitating more eco-friendly options. In response to the demand for safe and environmentally-friendly packaging, the food industry has invested in sustainable alternatives that maintain nutritional quality and sensory traits of food.

The research group, comprising scientists from the State University of Campinas's School of Chemical Engineering (FEQ-UNICAMP) and the Institute of Food Technology (ITAL), has published their findings in Food Packaging and Shelf Life.

"We focused on limonene because Brazil is one of the world's largest producers of oranges, and São Paulo stands as the leading orange-producing state," explained Roniérik Pioli Vieira, last author of the article and a professor at FEQ-UNICAMP.

The key innovation lies in using poly(limonene), a stable derivative of limonene, overcoming the volatility and instability challenges during the packaging manufacturing process. The researchers combined poly(limonene) with chitosan, a natural biopolymer known for its antioxidant and anti-microbial properties, resulting in a film with enhanced bioactive capabilities.

Laboratory tests demonstrated the film's superior antioxidant activity, twice as potent as traditional limonene-based films. It also effectively blocked ultraviolet radiation and withstood high temperatures, making it suitable for large-scale production.

Though not yet available for commercial use due to optimization requirements for chitosan-based plastic production and the poly(limonene) manufacturing process, the research group remains dedicated to advancing the multifunctionality of this renewable additive.

This groundbreaking biodegradable film signifies a major stride towards sustainable packaging, reducing plastic waste and contributing to a greener future for the food industry.

Agencia.fapesp.br

Photo: FEQ-UNICAMP