Biopolymers as an alternative to synthetic polymers for sustainable food packaging applications

Hossein Haghighi 
Dep. of Life Science - University of Modena and Reggio Emilia - Italy

July 14, 2021 (11:30-12:30)
Webinar Link: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/340456229

Abstract: The recent sharp increase of sensitivity towards environmental issues arising from plastic packaging has boosted interest in alternative sustainable packaging materials. This new trend promotes the industrial exploitation of knowledge on bioplastics. Bioplastics referred to plastics obtained from renewable resources (biobased), plastics that are biodegradable and/or compostable, or materials that feature both properties. In this context, biopolymers derived from renewable resources have been proposed as the future generation of packaging materials. In addition, biopolymer films are an excellent matrix for incorporating a wide variety of functional additives such as antioxidants and antimicrobials compounds leading to improve in food quality and extend shelf life. Our research group at the Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia aims to develop films and coating formulations based on biopolymers enriched with different antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds and characterize their microstructural, mechanical, barrier, optical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties for their potential applications as food packaging materials

Author's Info: http://personale.unimore.it/Rubrica/dettaglio/haghighi

Link to video: https://youtu.be/yAAGUHr6yD8