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Packaging waste makes up more than 10% of the landfilled waste in the United States. While consumers often want to make environmentally friendly product choices, we find that their perceptions of the environmental friendliness of product packaging may systematically deviate from its objective environmental friendliness. Eight studies (N = 4,103) document the perceived environmental friendliness (PEF) bias whereby consumers judge plastic packaging with additional paper to be more environmentally friendly than identical plastic packaging without the paper. The PEF bias is driven by consumers' "paper = good, plastic = bad" beliefs and by proportional reasoning, wherein packaging with a greater paper-to-plastic proportion is judged as more environmentally friendly. We further show that the PEF bias impacts consumers' willingness to pay and product choice. Importantly, this bias can be mitigated by a "minimal packaging sticker" intervention, which increases the environmental friendliness perceptions of plastic-only packaging, rendering plastic-packaged products to be preferable to their plastic-plus-paper-packaged counterparts. This research contributes to the packaging literature in marketing and to research on sustainability while offering practical implications for managers and public policy officials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural plant fiber‐based packaging materials emerges as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastic and non‐biodegradable packaging. This paper presents an extensive review of the current technological status quo and commercial applications of natural plant fiber‐based packaging such as fiber‐based foams, molded pulp packaging, fiber‐based bottles, fiber‐based flexible packaging, fiber‐based blister packaging and stretchable paper. It focuses on the manufacturing processes and newest technology advancement of environmentally sustainable materials, meanwhile, the currently industry‐leading, cutting‐edge commercial products also are discussed. In conclusion, the paper advocates for the pivotal role natural plant fiber‐based packaging plays in transforming the packaging industry, addressing waste reduction, resource conservation, and climate change. It encourages the wider adoption of these materials while acknowledging the complexities involved and the need for continuous research and development to ensure their viability and effectiveness in meeting stringent packaging requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating environmental concerns associated with conventional plastic packaging have accelerated the development of sustainable alternatives, making food packaging a focus area for innovation. Bioplastics, particularly polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), have emerged as potential candidates due to their biobased origin, biodegradability, and biocompatibility. PHAs stand out for their good mechanical and medium gas permeability properties, making them promising materials for food packaging applications. In parallel, zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) have gained attention for their antimicrobial properties and ability to enhance the mechanical and barrier properties of (bio)polymers. This review aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the research on PHA/ZnO nanocomposites. It starts with the importance and current challenges of food packaging, followed by a discussion on the opportunities of bioplastics and PHAs. Next, the synthesis, properties, and application areas of ZnO NPs are discussed to introduce their potential use in (bio)plastic food packaging. Early research on PHA/ZnO nanocomposites has focused on solvent-assisted production methods, whereas novel technologies can offer additional possibilities with regard to industrial upscaling, safer or cheaper processing, or more specific incorporation of ZnO NPs in the matrix or on the surface of PHA films or fibers. Here, the use of solvent casting, melt processing, electrospinning, centrifugal fiber spinning, miniemulsion encapsulation, and ultrasonic spray coating to produce PHA/ZnO nanocomposites is explained. Finally, an overview is given of the reported effects of ZnO NP incorporation on thermal, mechanical, gas barrier, UV barrier, and antimicrobial properties in ZnO nanocomposites based on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate). We conclude that the functionality of PHA materials can be improved by optimizing the ZnO incorporation process and the complex interplay between intrinsic ZnO NP properties, dispersion quality, matrix–filler interactions, and crystallinity. Further research regarding the antimicrobial efficiency and potential migration of ZnO NPs in food (simulants) and the End-of-Life will determine the market potential of PHA/ZnO nanocomposites as active packaging material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Petroleum-based plastic packaging materials have negative impacts on the environment and food safety. Natural biopolymer-based food packaging materials are the proper substitutes for plastic-based ones, which is because biopolymers are nontoxic, biodegradable and even edible. The incorporation of bioactive and functional substances into a biopolymer-based film matrix can produce novel smart packaging materials. Anthocyanins, one class of natural colorants with potent antioxidant activity and pH-response color-changing ability, are suitable for producing biopolymer-based smart packaging films. The purple sweet potato is a functional food rich in anthocyanins. In the past decade, numerous studies have reported the extraction of anthocyanins from purple sweet potato and the utilization of purple sweet potato anthocyanins (PSPAs) in biopolymer-based smart packaging film production. However, no specific review has summarized the recent advances on biopolymer-based smart packaging films containing PSPAs. Therefore, in this review, we aim to systematically summarize the progress on the extraction, isolation, characterization, purification and functional properties of PSPAs. Moreover, we thoroughly introduce the preparation methods, physical properties, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, pH sensitivity, stability and applications of biopolymer-based smart packaging films containing PSPAs. Factors affecting the extraction and functional properties of PSPAs as well as the properties of biopolymer-based films containing PSPAs are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Packaging plastics are being substituted by more sustainable materials to satisfy modern‐life requirements. For example, utilisation of biocoated paperboards for packaging is one of the options; however, certain challenges exist in maintaining the integrity of the coated surface. In this study, the barrier formation and convertibility properties of a novel suberin dispersion coating were examined and compared with those of six commercial coatings by measuring their oil and grease resistance and using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) before and after creasing. Even before creasing, SEM revealed deep cavities on the coated surfaces, with the potential to impair the material barrier properties. Furthermore, finite element modelling provided evidence that creasing stresses emerged under the rules and in nearby areas. These outer stresses with internal fibre structure realignment caused the formation of surface defects such as grazes, microcracks and coating ruptures. The deepest defects, which critically reduce the barrier properties, were oriented parallel to the machine direction of the materials. In contrast, the cross‐machine direction‐oriented defects were bridged by the substrate fibres and did not penetrate that deeply into the coating thickness. The amount and severity of the surface damage revealed by SEM were correlated with the actual oil resistance measured for each material. The results indicate that the suberin dispersion exhibits promising barrier performance as a paperboard coating but requires further development to enhance its resistance to the conversion stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, replacing plastic packaging materials with biobased alternatives has been trending in the field of food packaging. The role of food packaging materials is to contain and protect the product throughout the supply chain, and the most used materials for this are polyolefins due to their functionality and affordability. However, environmental awareness and the new regulations and restrictions have been strong drivers to push the development towards biobased materials. In this study, the feasibility and potential of biowaxes used as a dispersion barrier coating formulation material were examined. Four commercial biowaxes were selected for the study, and their nano‐ and crystalline structures were determined by wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (WAXS). The biowaxes were melted and dispersed into a stable water‐based dispersion. Barrier coating formulations were prepared using two different polymer dispersions mixed with the waxes and additives. A fibre substrate was coated with the prepared formulations, and their barrier properties were studied. The properties of biowax‐containing coatings showed similar or minor improvements compared to the reference. However, foldability was especially improved in the biowax sample. Interestingly, this sample contained wax, which was structurally most stable, presenting an orthorhombic phase in all studied states. Based on our results, introducing biowax materials is a viable solution to replace part of the formulation materials and adjust the barrier performance of existing dispersion polymers. Our results also suggest that the nanostructure of waxes might play a role in an optimal solution. However, all these observations deserve more studies, and the share of biowax in barrier coatings will need further optimisation in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental impacts resulting from plastic food packaging, made from both fossil‐based and bio‐based polymers, are increasingly analyzed in life cycle assessment (LCA) studies. However, the literature reveals significant variations in results for the same polymer within the same scope. To enhance the reliability of these assessments, data quality assessment (DQA) plays a relevant role. However, despite most of the LCA studies employing aggregated life cycle inventory (LCI) datasets, in the literature, DQA methods for aggregated processes are not available. To fill this gap, in this paper, a DQA for aggregated LCI datasets is proposed and demonstrated through its application to 101 aggregated LCI datasets, extracted from Ecoinvent and GaBi databases. The DQA method has been developed by adapting and integrating the pedigree matrix and the data quality ranking proposed by the recently published EC Plastic LCA method. The three data quality indicators (DQIs) used are technological, geographical, and time‐related representativeness. The application of this method exhibits an overall positive evaluation of the selected datasets with differences among the three DQIs. Moreover, it highlights the role of metadata structure in adequately supporting a robust DQA. Indeed, in the absence of a common framework that defines, assesses, and provides access to data quality information, transparency must be assured by the operator in the metadata interpretation and related assumptions along the DQA process. Finally, although the proposed DQA method was developed for the plastic sector, its application can be extended to LCI aggregated datasets relevant to other sectors, materials, and products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forged products are widespread in the market and there is an immediate need to counter this growing menace. Anti-counterfeit techniques using fluorescent materials with covert features that appear hidden under daylight and display characteristic fluorescence upon specific source irradiation have gained popularity. Carbon dots (CDs) that can be prepared through facile synthesis from various raw materials are a class of fluorescent materials that provide tremendous opportunities to combat counterfeiting. This work focuses on the fabrication of perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic dianhydride (PTCDA) derived CDs via the solvothermal approach and their subsequent purification using column chromatography. The fifth fraction obtained exhibited remarkable yellow emission (λem = 540 nm) with a high fluorescence quantum yield of 53.22% and a lifetime of 4 ns. The CDs appeared quasi-spherical during TEM imaging with an average diameter of 1–3 nm and appeared polycrystalline from the SAED pattern. The XPS and TEM-EDS results suggested carbon as the major element along with oxygen and nitrogen as the other heteroatoms. The water-based ecofriendly ink formulated using the CDs was printed on UV dull paper using the flexography technique. The print-proof paper samples appeared pale pink under daylight and fluorescent yellow upon 365 nm UV illumination. Moreover, the stability of the print was confirmed upon exposure to strong UV radiation cycles and abrasion resistance. Besides, the fluorescence emission remained unaltered even after 5 months of storage under room temperature conditions. The ink was used to print on PVC sheets and FBB boards with good stability against scuffing, suggesting its applicability in the packaging industry. The CDs could also serve as fluorescent markers for identifying post-consumer plastic packaging for a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper- and paperboard-based materials are alternatives to petroleum-based plastics in food packaging but unsuitable for their poor moisture and oil resistance. In this sense, fluorinated compounds improve water and grease repellency, though their use is controversial. This Perspective discusses main techniques to combine fluorinated compounds with paper and paperboard, including water and oil contact angles and grease resistance values, and summarizes main legal aspects in Europe and the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Replacing traditional disposable, non-biodegradable plastic packaging with biodegradable plastic packaging is one of the key approaches to address the issue of "white pollution". PBAT/PLA/inorganic filler composites are widely utilized as a biodegradable material, commonly employed in the field of packaging films. However, the poor dispersion of inorganic fillers in the polymer matrix and the limited compatibility between PBAT and PLA have led to inferior mechanical properties and elevated costs. In this work, we propose a simple and effective strategy to improve the dispersion of nano-CaCO3 in a PBAT/PLA matrix through solid-state shear- milling (S3M) technology, combined with mechanochemical modification and in situ compatibilization to enhance the compatibility between PBAT and PLA. The impact of varying milling conditions on the structure and performance of the PBAT/PLA/CaCO3 composites was investigated. During the milling process, PBAT and PLA undergo partial molecular chain fragmentation, generating more active functional groups. In the presence of the chain extender ADR during melt blending, more branched PBAT-g-PLA is formed, thereby enhancing matrix compatibility. The results indicate that the choice of milling materials significantly affects the structure and properties of the composite. The film obtained by milling only PBAT and CaCO3 exhibited the best performance, with its longitudinal tensile strength and fracture elongation reaching 22 MPa and 437%, respectively. This film holds great potential for application in the field of green packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biopolymers derived from biomass can provide the advantages of both biodegradability and functional qualities from a circular economy point of view, where waste is transformed into raw material. In particular, avocado seeds can be considered an interesting residue for biobased packaging applications due to their high starch content. In this work, avocado seed starch (ASS)-based films containing different glycerol concentrations were prepared by solvent casting. Films were also reinforced with starch nanocrystals (SNCs) obtained through the acid hydrolysis of ASS. The characterization of the extracted starch and starch nanocrystals by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis has been reported. Adding 1% of SNCs increased elastic modulus by 112% and decreased water vapor permeability by 30% with respect to neat matrix. Interestingly, the bioactive compounds from the avocado seed provided the films with high antioxidant capacity. Moreover, considering the long time required for traditional plastic packaging to degrade, all of the ASS-based films disintegrated within 48 h under lab-scale composting conditions. The results of this work support the valorization of food waste byproducts and the development of reinforced biodegradable materials for potential use as active food packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of fossil-based plastics in food packaging poses a serious environmental concern. Pectin, a natural biodegradable polymer, offers a potential solution for environmentally friendly and sustainable food packaging to replace fossil-based plastics. This article reviews the applications of pectin in active and intelligent packaging and analyzes the latest research trends. Bibliometric analysis was used to review the existing literature on pectin in food packaging. Data were collected from the Scopus database, which covers research on film manufacturing and pectin-based coating. Pectin-based active packaging contains antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds such as ascorbic acid and essential oils, which effectively prevent bacterial growth while absorbing oxygen and water vapor. In contrast, pectin-based intelligent packaging allows real-time monitoring of food quality through integrated color-changing indicators, eliminating the need for open packaging. Research trends have shown a significant increase in publications on pectin-based packaging, reflecting the growing interest in sustainable packaging solutions. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, pectin can replace conventional plastics and provide safer and more durable packaging solutions, thereby supporting global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The drive towards the consumption of healthy foods and adoption of beneficial eating habits has spurred to develop innovative probiotic food products with antibacterial characteristics. In recent years, researchers have been exploring the use of probiotic edible films with antimicrobial properties to improve the viability and effectiveness of probiotics in meals and to protect from harmful pathogens. However, there are various factors that can affect the effectiveness of probiotic edible films. These include the composition of the film, the type of probiotic used, and the conditions in which the film was stored and transported. This review provides a brief overview on the use of probiotic edible films in active packaging with antimicrobial effects, its storage stability, and future prospects. In summary, food system sustainability is crucial, and tackling packaging issues is vital. Synthetic plastic packaging harms the environment, so we need eco‐friendly alternatives like probiotic edible films. These films offer benefits like better food safety, longer shelf life, and pathogen protection. Challenges include preserving probiotics, dealing with regulations, and expanding use. Collaboration between science and the food industry is essential for a greener, healthier food future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the Spiral of Silence theory, we posit that people perceive opinion climates on three different levels: the opinion climate (1) in society, (2) among their friends, and (3) in a specific situation. Based on a three-wave panel survey with two embedded experiments (N = 1,286), we analyze whether these perceived opinion climates influence the participation in online political discussions. Results show that perceptions of the opinion climate in society and among friends do not have an effect. Instead, the perceived situational climate of opinion matters: Individuals in balanced or congruent opinion environments engage more often than those in incongruent environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food industry is still dependent on plastics for packaging materials, primarily due to their effectiveness in safeguarding products from external factors, such as moisture, light, and gas. However, traditional plastic packaging lacks the ability to actively preserve the quality and extend the shelf life of food. To address this challenge, various methods are currently being developed through surface modifications and the incorporation of active compounds. In most cases, studies on the modification of active film using low-pressure plasma (LPP) use different parameters, including time, pressure, and power, without a systematic optimization process. Therefore, this study aims to determine the optimum parameters for the combination of LPP treatment and Pickering emulsion (PE) of nutmeg essential oil (NEO) using Taguchi's orthogonal assay design (OAD) to produce LDPE-active film. The results showed that the optimum conditions were 15 W LPP power, 30 s LPP duration time, and 1.5% PE-NEO concentration. These results showed a 50% improvement in power and time efficiency. LDPE film–loaded PE-NEO was then applied to tilapia fillets in cold storage. The results showed that the TBARS and TBVN values of the samples after the treatment were lower than those of the control by 12.11% and 16.74%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem addressed in this article focuses on the management of plastic waste, which has experienced a significant increase in recent years, posing challenges in its management and recycling. In addition, the concentration of microplastics in water and their impact on health and the food chain is highlighted. The proposed solution consists of developing a mechatronic system for sorting plastic and metal bottles using capacitive and inductive sensors, respectively. The system demonstrated efficiency in tests, achieving 100% sorting for plastic and metal bottles. The need for bottles to be properly positioned for optimal performance was identified. This work highlights the importance of automation in mechatronic systems and the effectiveness of capacitive and inductive sensors in sorting materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The Pew Charitable Trust's 2020 report 'Breaking the Plastic Wave', indicates that existing technologies could support an 80% reduction in plastic leakage relative to business as usual by 2040. Therefore, South Africa became the first country to work with the Pew Charitable Trust and Oxford University to test and apply 'Pathways', a modelling framework and software tool which stemmed and evolved from the Pew report, at country level. The tool calculates the flows of plastics in the economy and the impact of various strategies to reduce future plastic pollution. The Scenario Builder within the Pathways tool allows the user to optimise flows in the plastics value chain to satisfy a set of defined objectives in order to achieve an optimal solution. Three major findings have emerged from the application of Pathways at country level for South Africa. Firstly, plastic pollution is set to almost double by 2040 if no interventions are implemented. Secondly, meeting the newly legislated extended producer responsibility (EPR) targets set for plastic packaging can avoid 33% of projected total pollution over the period of 2023–2040. Lastly, an optimal system change can avoid 63% of total plastic pollution over the period 2023–2040. Thus, applying Pathways at country level in South Africa has proven to be valuable by setting a baseline against which progress towards reducing plastic pollution can be measured; determining the outcome of meeting the legislated EPR targets over time, and informing policy decisions by allowing users to model different scenarios towards an optimal system change scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic food packaging causes massive pollution in the environment via resource extraction, gas emissions, and the enduring plastic waste accumulation. Hence, it is of crucial importance to discover sustainable alternatives in order to protect ecosystems and conserve precious resources. Recently, seaweed has been emerging as a promising sustainable solution to plastic pollution. Seaweed is a fast-growing marine plant that is abundant in tropical coastlines and requires minimal resources to cultivate. In addition, seaweed is rich in valuable polysaccharides such as alginate, fucoidan, carrageenan, agar, and ulva, which can be extracted and processed into biodegradable films, coatings, and wraps. This ability allows the creation of an alternative to plastic food packages that are completely biodegradable, made from renewable resources, and do not linger in landfills or oceans for centuries. In this context, this review discusses the main classification of seaweed, their production and abundance in the world, and provides a summary of seaweed-based materials developed in the last 2–5 years for potential usage in the food packaging sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional passive packaging plays a crucial role in food manufacturing by protecting foods from various external influences. Most packaging materials are polymer-based plastics derived from fossil carbon sources, which are favored for their versatility, aesthetic appeal, and cost-effectiveness. However, the extensive use of these materials poses significant environmental challenges due to their fossil-based origins and persistence in the environment. Global plastic consumption for packaging is expected to nearly triple by 2060, exacerbating the ecological crisis. Moreover, globalization has increased access to a diverse range of foods from around the world, heightening the importance of packaging in providing healthier and safer foods with extended shelf life. In response to these challenges, there is a growing shift to eco-friendly active packaging that not only protects but also preserves the authentic qualities of food, surpassing the roles of conventional passive packaging. This article provides a comprehensive review on the viability, benefits, and challenges of implementing bio-based biodegradable polymers in active food packaging, with the dual goals of environmental sustainability and extending food shelf life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recycling of PET trays is highly challenging. The aim of this paper was to investigate the issues related to the mechanical recycling process and, the correlation between feedstock composition and the quality of the produced rPET. Four feedstocks with different degrees of impurity were mechanically recycled at a laboratory pilot scale. The optical and thermal properties of the rPET products were examined to determine the quality and to seek relations with the starting level of impurities. The final products of the PET trays' mechanical recycling were found to be affected by the presence of impurities (organics) and multi-material (non-PET) elements in the feedstocks. The rPET products crystallised faster for contaminated feedstocks showed lower molecular mass and higher yellow index values due to thermal degradation. Yellowing is a crucial parameter in assessing the thermal degradation of rPET. Injection moulded samples corresponding to higher contamination levels, reported values of Yellow Index equal to 179 and 177 compared to 15 of mono-PET sample. The intrinsic viscosity decreased from 0.60 dL/g to just above 0.30 dL/g, and losses were more significant for soiled or multi-material feedstocks. A method of improving the final quality would involve the purification of the starting feedstock from impurities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Polystyrene is a staple plastic in the packaging and insulation market. Despite its good recyclability, the willingness of PS recycling remains low, largely due to the high recycling cost and limited profitability. This review examines the research progresses, gaps, and challenges in areas that affect the recycling costs, including but not limited to logistics, packaging design, and policymaking. We critically evaluate the recent developments in upcycling strategies, and we particularly focus on tandem and hydrogen‐atom transfer (HAT) upcycling strategies. We conclude that future upcycling studies should focus on not only reaction chemistry and mechanisms but also economic viability of the processes. The goal of this review is to stimulate the development of innovative recycling strategies with low recycling costs and high economic output values. We hope to stimulate the economic and technological momentum of PS recycling towards a sustainable and circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic is a material that is often used as a storage medium, equipment and also furniture to support human activities, but plastic is not easily broken down by the environment. Bioplastic technology is one of the efforts made to address the problem of plastic packaging which can pollute the environment. Environmentally friendly plates, bioplastic products made from tapioca, glycerol and sugar cane bagasse. This research aims to determine the effect of variations in the size of bagasse on tensile strength, elongation at break, water resistance and biodegradability of environmentally friendly plates and to obtain the best formulation of varying sizes of bagasse as raw material for making environmentally friendly plates. This research used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with one factor, namely variation in the size of the bagasse. The results of this research show that there is a real influence between tensile strength, water resistance and biodegradability, however, in the elongation test, variations in bagasse did not have a significant effect. Tensile strength values range from 20.00 N/mm2 to 47.72 N/mm2. The largest elongation value is 4.08%. The highest water resistance is at room temperature, namely 88.86% with a degree of curvature of 16° and in water with a temperature of 60°C, namely 85.02% with a degree of curvature of 18.75°. Variations in the size of bagasse also affect the biodegradability of environmentally friendly plates which ranges from 11.77% to 14.65%. The best treatment is a sample with a variety of bagasse sizes of 60 mesh, because it has high strength compared to other samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Degradable and high-barrier plastic packaging materials draw more attention with the development of a social economy and the demands of environmental protection. In this study, poly(propylene carbonate phthalate) (PPC-P) and poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) blends with different ratios were designed and prepared, marked as PPC-P/PBAT. Chain extenders were introduced into the blends, and the mechanical properties, thermal properties, and barrier properties of the composites were studied. The 75PPC-P/PBAT with 2% extenders represent the best performance. The addition of the chain extender has significantly improved the thermal stability and tensile elongation of PPC-P/PBAT. On this basis, the PPC-P/PBAT composite film was coated with PVA and borax using the dipping and pulling method. The oxygen barrier properties have been further improved for the composite film with a coating layer. Considering the characteristics of biodegradability and a high-barrier property, the 75PPC-P/PBAT/2MDI@Gly blend coated with 2 wt% PVA and 3 wt% borax exhibits potential as a superior food/pharmaceutical plastic packaging material with excellent tensile and barrier properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gellan gum (GG) is a natural polysaccharide with a wide range of industrial applications. This review aims to investigate the potential of GG-based films and coatings to act as environmentally friendly substitutes for traditional petrochemical plastics in food packaging. GG-based films and coatings exhibit versatile properties that can be tailored through the incorporation of various substances, such as plant extracts, microorganisms, and nanoparticles. These functional additives enhance properties like the light barrier, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial capabilities, all of which are essential for extending the shelf-life of perishable food items. The ability to control the release of active compounds, along with the adaptability of GG-based films and coatings to different food products, highlights their effectiveness in preserving quality and inhibiting microbial growth. Furthermore, GG-based composites that incorporate natural pigments can serve as visual indicators for monitoring food freshness. Overall, GG-based composites present a promising avenue for the development of sustainable and innovative food packaging solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating environmental impact of plastic packaging waste necessitates sustainable alternatives in food packaging. This study explores starch-based films derived from cassava and potato as viable substitutes, aiming to mitigate plastic pollution and enhance environmental sustainability. Utilizing a casting method, formulations optimized by CCRD were characterized for their physical, physicochemical, and morphological properties. Comprehensive analysis revealed both cassava and potato starch films to exhibit robust structural integrity, high tensile strength (up to 32.6 MPa for cassava starch films), and semi-crystalline morphology. These films demonstrated low water vapor permeability and moderate solubility, akin to conventional low-density polyethylene used in packaging. Differential scanning calorimetry indicated glass transition temperatures between 116.36 °C and 119.35 °C, affirming thermal stability suitable for packaging applications. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed homogeneous film surfaces, with cassava starch films (C4-15) exhibiting superior transparency and uniformity. X-ray diffraction corroborated the films' semi-crystalline nature, unaffected by sorbitol content variations. Despite their mechanical and thermal suitability, further enhancements in thermal degradation resistance are essential for broader thermoprocessing applicability. These findings underscore the potential of starch-based films to be used as lids or other part of a food package, decreasing the plastic dependency in food packaging, contributing decisively to waste reduction and environmental preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Export-led industrialization is crucial for economic growth, emphasizing the shift from primary production to manufacturing. Malawi aims for industrialization through its National Export Strategy (NES), focusing on oilseed and sugarcane products and manufacturing. However, research gaps exist on export promotion programs' impact, especially in less developed countries like Malawi and specific sectors like plastics and packaging. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative methods for robust analysis. All 13 firms in Malawi's plastics and packaging industry were surveyed in Blantyre and Lilongwe to assess the impact of the National Export Strategy (NES). A questionnaire with 37 questions across six sections, adapted from prior research, was used to gather comprehensive data on various aspects such as employment, production, and investment. Ethical clearance was obtained, and completed questionnaires underwent thorough review before data analysis. Results are presented in subsequent sections. The impact of Malawi's National Export Strategy (NES) on its plastics and packaging industry highlights vital challenges. Employment suffers from a lack of skilled labor, stemming from a mismatch with training institutions. Firms struggle with limited access to finance and high borrowing costs, hindering investment. High taxes and duties hamper export competitiveness, while unreliable energy supply increases operational costs. Additionally, transportation expenses impede raw material imports, exports, and local distribution. These findings underscore the need to address skill mismatches, enhance financial access, reduce trade barriers, and improve infrastructure to bolster the industry's resilience and competitiveness under the NES. Policy implications include collaborating with financial institutions to enhance access to grants and affordable credit, imposing higher import taxes on finished products to protect local producers, improving energy supply, enhancing transportation infrastructure, introducing incentives for investment in support services, raising awareness of NES benefits, and establishing industry-specific meetings to address sector-specific issues. These measures aim to bolster the plastics and packaging industry's competitiveness and support its growth under the NES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the dynamics of biomass growth, lactic acid production, and glucose consumption for three microorganisms; Weissella cibaria IBUN 090–03684, Lactobacillus pantarum IBUN 090–03774, and Lactobacillus pantarum IBUN 04139 by using an extended logistic model. The microorganisms were cultivated in a 1 L bioreactor with pH control by using MRS medium at 37 ∘C for 24 h at 100 rpm. Weissella cibaria IBUN 090–03684 exhibited the highest product yield (1.26 gg−1), followed by Lactobacillus plantarum IBUN 04139 (0.96 gg−1), and Lactobacillus plantarum IBUN 090–03774 (0.90 gg−1), respectively. The results indicate that Weissella cibaria IBUN 090–03684 holds significant potential for large-scale lactic acid production. Furthermore, the reported modeling strategy fits well with experimental data for the three microorganisms evaluated. [Display omitted] • The logistics function is a good option for estimating kinetic parameters. • W. cibaria IBUN 090–03684 is a good option for large scale lactic acid production. • Lb. plantarum IBUN 04139 has the highest lactic acid production rate. • PLA from microbial lactic acid production can replace the plastic packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Conservar Património is the property of Associacao Profissional de Conservadores-Restauradores de Portugal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The limited use of xanthan (Xa) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) in the food packaging industry is due to their poor barrier and antimicrobial properties. The objective of this work was to enhance the characteristics of the CMC/Xa composite coating by incorporating ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) that were prepared through a green method through Coriandrum sativum extract. FTIR and XRD confirmed the successful preparation of the coating and verified the interactions between its components. Compared to the neat CMC/Xa system, systems incorporated with ZnO-NPs exhibited excellent water barrier, mechanical, thermal, and antimicrobial characteristics. The CMC/Xa/ZnO-NP systems effectively prolonged the shelf life of tomatoes for a storage period of 20 days without any significant indications of spoilage or mass loss of the coated tomatoes. The obtained results indicated that the developed coating has the potential to replace traditional plastic packaging and effectively preserve food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing demand for sustainable packaging materials has driven the exploration of biodegradable alternatives to synthetic plastics. This study investigates the thermal and mechanical properties of starch-based films plasticized with varying concentrations of glycerol and sorbitol. Cornstarch films were prepared with glycerol and sorbitol plasticizers in different ratios, and their physical characteristics, including swelling index, water solubility, and thermal stability, were assessed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and tensile testing. The results indicate that the incorporation of plasticizers significantly influenced the films' properties. Films with higher glycerol content exhibited greater flexibility and solubility, while sorbitol-plasticized films showed enhanced thermal stability. The combination of both plasticizers yielded films with balanced properties suitable for food packaging applications. This study demonstrates the potential of glycerol and sorbitol as effective plasticizers in developing biodegradable starch-based films, offering a promising alternative to conventional plastic packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food packaging plays a critical role in maintaining the freshness and quality of foods by minimizing oxidation and microbial contamination. Active packaging systems based on biodegradable polymers with green production have received great attention. Here, Melissa officinalis extract (ME) with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties was incorporated into chitosan (Cs)/ polyethylene oxide (PEO) electrospun nanofibers. Nanofibers were fabricated through electrospinning as an efficient and versatile technique with an applied voltage of 18 kV and a tip-to-collector distance of 18 cm. The total phenolic and flavonoid content of ME was measured. By incorporating ME into the nanofibers, the need for synthetic additives or preservatives can be reduced, promoting eco-friendly packaging solutions. The nanofibers were characterized regarding morphology, water contact angle, swelling degree, weight loss, mechanical strength, and vapor permeability. To improve the mechanical properties of nanofibers, photo-cross-linking was applied with benzophenone. Nanofibers were evaluated in terms of antioxidant and antifungal activities as well as their ability to protect edible mushroom quality. ME contained a significant amount of phenolic compounds as well as 1.3 mg caffeic acid/g herbal extract. Cs/PEO/ME nanofibers showed uniform and bead-free structures with an average fiber diameter of 157.7 nm. Photo-cross-linked nanofibers exhibited higher water resistance and mechanical properties compared with the as-spun formulation. ME-loaded nanofibers had higher antioxidant and antifungal activities than the empty formulation. Cross-linked Cs/PEO/ME nanofibers prolonged the shelf life of mushrooms compared to empty mats and plastic films. In conclusion, the multifunctional cross-linked Cs/PEO/ME nanofibers have broad prospects in active food packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cookly is a bread manufacturer that uses cassava as the main ingredient to produce gluten-free products. Cookly requires innovative development of derived products that cater to consumer needs. Purpose: This study aims to identify consumer characteristics, analyze consumer preferences, and formulate an innovation plan for Cookly gluten-free derived bread products. Design/methodology/approach: The sample for this study consisted of 100 participants selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data analysis utilized descriptive analysis and conjoint analysis. Findings/Result: The study found that Cookly consumers were evenly distributed in terms of gender, aged between 18-25, mostly unmarried, residing in Bogor, with a high school education, and working as students or employees, with a monthly expenditure ranging from IDR500,000-IDR3,000,000. Conclusion: The most preferred attribute combination by respondents was a dominant savory taste with relatively low sugar content, a soft texture, bread with color, packaged in environmentally friendly boxes, and priced between IDR10,000- IDR25,000 Originality/value (State of the art): Cookly developed a convenient gluten-free bread product, the Gluten-Free Toasted Cassava Bread, with savory flavors offered as signature menu items and a "make your own" option. Additionally, Cookly switched from plastic packaging to eco-friendly packaging and improved production efficiency through the use of new tools and adjustments to raw material restocking schedules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the EU's ambitious goals is to ensure all plastic packaging is reusable or recyclable by 2030. However, achieving higher recycling rates, particularly in flexible multilayer food packaging, is challenging due to the combination of diverse materials. This highlights the importance of designing for recyclability and exploring alternative barrier solutions. In this study, several types of coatings, such as ORMOCER® (Fraunhofer-ISC, Würzburg, Germany) Michem® Flex B3513 (Michelman International Belgium SRL, Aubange, Belgium), and PVOH (Kuraray Europe GmbH, Frankfurt am Main, Germany), are applied on different polypropylene substrates, including cast PP (CPP70), SiOx, and AlOx-coated PP films. The effect of double coating and optimized curing conditions of ORMOCER® on the oxygen permeability of CPP70 was also investigated. The results showed significant improvements in the barrier properties of PP/SiOx and OPP/AlOx films, and OTR values less than 0.1 cm3/m2·d·bar were achieved. It was also found that ORMOCER® and Michem® Flex B3513 could enhance the oxygen barrier property of CPP70 and the OTR value reduced by a factor of 88 and 551, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Despite the high global production of beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.), its peel is often discarded. Transforming beetroot into flour can reduce waste, improve food security, and decrease environmental pollution. However, large-scale feasibility depends on understanding drying kinetics and optimal storage conditions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different temperatures in the convective drying of whole beetroot and evaluate the influence of laminated flexible and plastic packaging on flour stability over two months. Drying kinetics were analyzed using five models, with the Page and Logarithm models showing the best fit (R2 > 0.99). Def values (1.27 × 10−9 to 2.04 × 10−9 m2 s−1) increased with rising temperatures while drying time was reduced (from 820 to 400 min), indicating efficient diffusion. The activation energy was 29.34 KJ mol−1, comparable to other plant matrices. Drying reduced moisture and increased ash concentration in the flour. The flour showed a good water adsorption capacity and low cohesiveness, making it marketable. Laminated packaging was more effective in controlling physicochemical parameters, reducing hygroscopicity, and maintaining quality over 60 days. In summary, the Page model can predict beetroot drying kinetics effectively, and laminated packaging can control flour stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic packaging materials have caused significant environmental issues because they are nonrenewable and nonbiodegradable. Wax‐emulsified films from biomaterials, on the other hand, are renewable and biodegradable, making them promising packaging alternatives. The development of bioactive wax‐emulsified films (BWEFs) with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties has been a topic of extensive research. In this review, we provide an overview of wax emulsification, BWEF processing, and applications. BWEF contains several bioactive agents such as tannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and carotenes. The addition of emulsified wax and active agents to films not only enhances their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties but also reduces their hydrophilicity. Other reagents have been added to BWEF partially to increase hydrophobicity and mainly to improve mechanical properties. BWEFs prolong food shelf life, monitor wound healing, and control drug delivery. We have identified some research challenges that need to be solved to make BWEFs industrially attractive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multilayered plastics are widely used in food packaging and other commercial applications due to their tailored functional properties. By layering different polymers, the multilayered composite material can have enhanced mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties compared to a single plastic. However, there is a significant need to recycle these multilayer plastics, but their complex structure offers significant challenges to their successful recycling. Ultimately, the use and recycling of these complex materials requires the ability to characterize the composition and purity as a means of quality control for both production and recycling processes. New advances and availability of low‐field benchtop 1H NMR spectrometers have led to increasing interest in its use for characterization of multicomponent polymers and polymer mixtures. Here, we demonstrate the capability of low‐field benchtop 1H NMR spectroscopy for characterization of three common polymers associated with multilayered packaging systems (low‐density polyethylene [LDPE], ethylene vinyl alcohol [EVOH], and Nylon) as well as their blends. Calibration curves are obtained for determining the unknown composition of EVOH and Nylon in multilayered packaging plastics using both the EVOH hydroxyl peak area and an observed peak shift, both yielding results in good agreement with the prepared sample compositions. Additionally, comparison of results extracted for the same samples characterized by our benchtop spectrometer and a 500‐MHz spectrometer found results to be consistent and within 2 wt% on average. Overall, low‐field benchtop 1H NMR spectroscopy is a reliable and accessible tool for characterization of these polymer systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key technologies for the ultrathin small outline package (TSOP) of large-sized high-speed chips have been designed and developed in this paper. The designing techniques, such as a 25 µm precise positioning dice attaching technique, a lead frame unit structure without a base island, and a lead co-plane layout inside the frame, were developed. The TSO package outline with a large number of leads, a frame unit arrangement, and a frame distribution with a base island and without one were improved. The technological problems, including the reduction in thickness, wafer cutting, chip sticking bonding, and plastic sealing, were successfully solved. The designed large-sized package products have many advantages, such as high availability, low cost, high reliability, and a short production cycle. This package technique can be widely used in various intellectual application regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic pollution has become a global problem since the extensive use of plastic in industries such as packaging, electronics, manufacturing and construction, healthcare, transportation, and others. This has resulted in an environmental burden that is continually growing, which has inspired many scientists as well as environmentalists to come up with creative solutions to deal with this problem. Numerous studies have been reviewed to determine practical, affordable, and environmentally friendly solutions to regulate plastic waste by leveraging microbes' innate abilities to naturally decompose polymers. Enzymatic breakdown of plastics has been proposed to serve this goal since the discovery of enzymes from microbial sources that truly interact with plastic in its naturalistic environment and because it is a much faster and more effective method than others. The scope of diverse microbes and associated enzymes in polymer breakdown is highlighted in the current review. The use of co-cultures or microbial consortium-based techniques for the improved breakdown of plastic products and the generation of high-value end products that may be utilized as prototypes of bioenergy sources is highlighted. The review also offers a thorough overview of the developments in the microbiological and enzymatic biological degradation of plastics, as well as several elements that impact this process for the survival of our planet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal cans, while boasting excellent barrier properties, raise concerns about leaching and environmental impacts. This study explored plastic trays, a potential alternative for canned food packaging. First we delved into the plastic tray's characteristics, including its composition and permeability to oxygen and water vapor. Secondly, we conducted a comparison between the newly introduced plastic packaging and traditional metal cans, focusing on their interactions with food during the sterilization process and their effects on the quality of Tunisian pea sauce. The composition analysis revealed that the plastic tray was composed of polypropylene (PP) (with a single endothermic peak at 168 °C), while the film was found to have a mixture of PP internally and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) externally (with two endothermic peaks at 161.96 °C and 243.81 °C). Plastic trays showed good results in water vapor permeability (0.832 g/m2.d) but exhibited higher oxygen permeability (190 g/m2.d), raising oxidation concerns. Migration testing confirmed plastic packaging safety (<10 mg/dm2), while some simulants exceeded limits in metal cans. pH levels remained consistent between both packaging types, but varied significantly over a 28-day storage. Total Volatile Basic Nitrogen (TVBN) levels differed significantly between plastic and metal packaging, with notable variations observed over time with maximums of 0.3 mg/100 g for plastic trays and 0.17 mg/100 g for metal cans. Sensory evaluation revealed that tasters were adept at differentiating between canned pea sauce in plastic trays and metal cans (83%, 10/12), with taste and color exhibiting significant differences (p < 0.05). This underlines the impact of packaging material on canned food quality and consumer preference, with minimal influence on other sensory aspects. This data empowers manufacturers to make informed packaging decisions for a diverse range of canned foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various natural polymers have been explored for their specific and desirable functional properties. Biopolymers have been found to hold the potential to satisfy many current environmental and health needs from a natural food packaging perspective. With a drive towards a more sustainable and plastic-free future, polymers like pectin and alginate have been considered key to reducing traditional plastic packaging usage in the food industry. These well-established, commercially available biopolymers display unique functional properties that can be manipulated in the development of biofilms that possess specific physical–mechanical properties. Pectin and alginate have also proven successful in the biomedical applications of encapsulation, drug delivery, wound healing and tissue engineering, greatly due to their ability to form biofilms and coatings. The structural and consequent functional properties of pectin and alginate have been investigated, although rarely concurrently with one another, focusing on biofilm development. Research has specifically identified and highlighted the importance of pectin and alginate in developing biofilms due to their versatile and charged structural nature. This review article discusses and highlights factors responsible for the specific properties displayed by pectin and alginate biofilms from a chemical and film development perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]