Research – Recent insights into green antimicrobial packaging towards food safety reinforcement: A review

Food packaging is widely used method of food preservation around the world. It is an element that enhances the quality and food product safety. The primary function of packaging is to protect food from contamination, undesirable chemical reactions and to provide physical protection. Food spoilage caused by food-borne pathogens and microbes is increasing tremendously posing an enormous threat. In the field of food packaging, new biodegradable and natural antimicrobial agents from plants and animals are gaining popularity. Recent foodborne outbreaks have prompted more creative and safe ways to initiate efficient packaging systems in food industries. However, as consumer demand for natural food ingredients has grown as a result of increasing safety and availability, natural substances are thought to be safer. Antimicrobial packaging that incorporates natural antimicrobials is thus a viable active packaging innovation. One possibility for increasing the safety and quality of foods while prolonging their shelf life is to employ natural antibacterial packaging. This article focuses on environmentally friendly bio-based polymers that can be utilized in food packaging to enhance mechanical strength, gas permeability, and water resistance, among other features. It also includes useful information about natural antimicrobial agents found in fruits and vegetables, as well as animal by-products, their properties, safety laws, and uses aimed at improving and increasing food quality and safety.