Biocomposites in active and intelligent food packaging applications

Biobased food packaging materials integrated with additives, which typically include antimicrobial and antioxidant agents, give rise to biocomposite materials. Biocomposite materials are considered intelligent biobased materials as they can provide real-time information on the quality of food products. Among the different additives used are plant extracts, essential oils, enzymes, and bacterocins that exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. They effectively inhibit growth of food spoilage microbes while prolonging shelf-life. Similarly, incorporation of metal particles and nanoclay into biocomposites also render excellent antimicrobial properties. These biocomposites are also capable of modifying the internal atmosphere of the packaging through scavenging of moisture, oxygen, and ethylene. Subsequently, food freshness is maintained along with microbial-free food conditions. Natural food colorants and pigments are used in the development of intelligent food packaging as they are sensitive to pH changes and gaseous production. They can detect and provide real-time information on food spoilage. This chapter aims to review the biocomposite materials used as active and intelligent food packaging materials as they have the potential to increase shelf-life and freshness of food, while providing real-time information on food quality.