Active and Intelligent Bioplastic Packaging: Materials, Benefits, Applications, Challenges, and Future Prospects

Bioplastic-based active and intelligent packaging represents one of the most transformative innovations in modern food preservation.

- Krishna Piriya Panneerselvam, Kesavan Devarayan,* Vanapriya Kosalairaman, Harith Kishore Sagadhevan

By combining renewable, biodegradable materials with functional additives and smart sensing systems, these packaging solutions improve food safety, extend shelf life, and significantly reduce environmental impact. As the demand for sustainable packaging grows, bioplastics are emerging as a promising alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics.

Material Sources for Bioplastic Packaging

Bioplastics used in active and intelligent packaging are derived from a wide range of natural, renewable sources that are biodegradable and often edible, making them highly suitable for direct food contact. These biopolymers include starch from corn, cassava, and potato; seaweed- and algae-based materials such as agar, carrageenan, and alginate; plant-derived cellulose and hemicellulose; chitosan obtained from shellfish waste with notable antimicrobial properties; protein-based materials like soy protein, whey protein, and gelatin; and polylactic acid (PLA) produced through the fermentation of plant sugars. Together, these materials form the basis for sustainable packaging films and coatings that deliver strong functional performance while significantly reducing environmental impact.

Benefits of Active and Intelligent Bioplastic Packaging Active and intelligent bioplastic packaging offers a wide range of advantages that extend beyond sustainability:

1. Improved Shelf Life

Active components help control microbial growth, reduce oxidation, and regulate moisture, keeping food fresh for longer.

2. Reduced Food Waste