Biopolymer Coatings on Paper Packaging Materials

TLDR

Environmental concerns over synthetic packaging and consumer demand for higher quality and longer shelf life have spurred interest in renewable biopolymers as barrier coatings for paper packaging. The study aims to incorporate antimicrobial agents into biopolymer coatings to create active paper packaging that protects food from microorganisms. The authors review the barrier, mechanical, and other properties of biopolymer-coated paper and discuss current and potential applications of bioactive coatings with examples. Biopolymer coatings retard moisture transfer, provide strong oxygen and oil barriers, are biodegradable, and could replace synthetic paper and paperboard coatings.

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Increased environmental concerns over the use of certain synthetic packaging and coatings in combination with consumer demands for both higher quality and longer shelf life have led to increased interest in alternative packaging materials research. Naturally renewable biopolymers can be used as barrier coatings on paper packaging materials. These biopolymer coatings may retard unwanted moisture transfer in food products, are good oxygen and oil barriers, are biodegradable, and have potential to replace current synthetic paper and paperboard coatings. Incorporation of antimicrobial agents in coatings to produce active paper packaging materials provides an attractive option for protecting food from microorganism development and spread. The barrier, mechanical, and other properties of biopolymer‐coated paper are reviewed. Existing and potential applications for bioactive coatings on paper packaging materials are discussed with examples.