Pectin and Pectin Derivative-Based Films

Increasing usage of synthetic packaging films has driven to significant ecological problems. Consumers are now shifting to biodegradable, eco-friendly materials obtained from food processing wastes. Pectin is a natural polysaccharide derived from the cell walls of many plants that is nontoxic. Chemically they are made of alpha 1–4-galacturonic acids, and the degree of methoxylation is used to classify them as high methoxyl or low methoxyl pectins. Due to versatile physical and chemical properties, pectin is a suitable matrix for designing packaging films. Environment-friendly edible films are prepared for food safety, facilitate easy food handling, and maintain the food quality for applicability in food packaging. Pectin-based films are formed or coated directly on food products with supplementary benefits. This chapter elaborated the sources, structure, and different methods of production and properties of pectin-based films.