A Brief Review on the Application of Bio-Nanocomposites for Fresh Food Coating

Abstract

Food waste is a global issue affecting the environment, economy, and society. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), over 33% of global food production is wasted, resulting in 1.3 billion metric tonnes of food waste annually. This waste is a significant resource waste, a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and a clear indication of inefficiencies in the global food system. Reducing food waste, particularly during the post-harvest phase, is a significant challenge for the global food sector. The escalating demand for sustainable food packaging solutions has fostered the development of bio-nanocomposites as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics. Bio-nanocomposites, composed of a biopolymer matrix reinforced with nanoparticles, offer a promising avenue for fresh food preservation due to their unique blend of properties. This brief review delves into the concept and the composition and preparation of bio-nanocomposites for fresh food coating applications. The properties of bio-nanocomposite coatings and the advantages of bio-nanocomposite coatings for fresh food are also discussed. Finally, the challenges and future prospects of bio-nanocomposites for fresh food coating applications are reviewed.