Polysaccharide-Based Films: Need, Status, and Regulatory Aspects

Nowadays, the world is drifting towards the biocompatible sources rather than synthetics due to their negative effects on the environment and human health. The biodegradability, sustainability, and eco-friendliness of biopolymer-based films have prompted a transformation towards them as an efficient alternative. Synthetic polymers in the form of plastics are accumulating primarily from food packaging, leading in hazardous environmental circumstances. As a result, attempts are being made to create biodegradable and edible films as a packaging alternative. Polysaccharide-based films prolong the shelf-life of food by strengthening the mechanical and barrier characteristics of the film, that is, particularly significant in the context of ready-to-eat and -serve products on the market. Cellulose, pectin, chitosan, starch, and other polysaccharide materials are capable of forming biofilms with high barrier qualities against moisture and microorganisms, as well as the transfer of gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide to avoid food deterioration. This chapter focuses on the advancements in polysaccharide-based films as a biodegradable, renewable, as well as low-cost substitute for food packaging and preservation, in order to better grasp their current state, research aspects, and future needs.