Sustainable Approach Toward Biodegradable Packaging Through Naturally Derived Biopolymers: An Overview

Petroleum-based polymers which are commonly used in food packaging, pose significant environmental challenges due to their toxic origin and low degradability. In response, biodegradable packaging systems made from naturally derived biopolymers are emerging as sustainable alternatives in the food industry. These biopolymers include microbial polyhydroxyalkanoates, polylactide, polysaccharides, animal and plant by-products like stems, peels, and feathers containing starch, protein, lipids and cellulose. Innovations also extend to bacterial cellulose and nano-fabrication, enhancing the functionality of food packaging. Biodegradable films offer numerous advantages, including being non-toxic, safe, and environmentally friendly, with potential to replace conventional plastics. Techniques such as active packaging with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, intelligent packaging with sensing capabilities, nanocomposite reinforcement, and edible coatings are employed to improve the properties and applications of these materials in food packaging. Despite their benefits, biopolymer-based packaging materials face challenges, including lower physical and barrier properties and higher production costs compared to petroleum-based options. To overcome these challenges, research is focused on improving material properties through blending and compatibilization, which enhance performance. Additionally, a comprehensive sustainability assessment, considering environmental, economic, and social factors across the entire life cycle, is crucial as biopolymer packaging advances toward commercialization. The present review summarizes the research progress of different biodegradable polymer, associated challenges, sustainability and its environmental impact.