Sustainable Food Packaging: A Brief Review of Chitosan-Based Materials

Abstract

The rapid global population growth and advancing technologies have significantly increased the demand for resources, leading to environmental challenges. The packaging industry, a critical sector for protecting products and extending shelf life, has relied heavily on petroleum-based polymers. However, these non-biodegradable materials pose severe environmental and waste disposal concerns. Biodegradable polymers, particularly those derived from natural sources like chitosan, offer a promising alternative. Chitosan, derived from chitin, is a renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic biopolymer with excellent film-forming and antimicrobial properties. When combined with other biopolymers or nanofillers, chitosan’s mechanical, barrier, and antibacterial properties can be enhanced, making it an ideal candidate for sustainable food packaging. This review explores the potential of chitosan-based films, their fabrication methods, and their role in extending food shelf life while minimizing environmental impact. The article highlights recent advancements, challenges, and the future prospects of chitosan as an eco-friendly solution for food packaging applications.