Nanotechnology in packaging-Ensures safety & drives sustainability
Packaging has evolved over the years and will continue to do so to meet the changing demands of the end-users. With biodegradability being one of the biggest driver of change, alternative materials are gaining popularity in the packaging sector. Lately, nanomaterials-based packaging is getting adopted across industries owing to several benefits. Nanomaterials utilised in packaging include Cellulose nanofibers, Graphene, Nanosilver, Nanoclays, Cellulose nanocrystals, Antimicrobial nanocoatings and films, Nanosilica, zinc oxide and titanium oxide nanoparticles, Carbon nanotubes, Chitosan nanoparticles and Quantum dots.
Key advantages of nanomaterials-based packaging
1. It extends product shelf-life, provide food safety assurance and food quality maintenance.
2. It increases barrier properties specifically from oxygen and moisture.
3. Also, it enhances mechanical properties including strength and flexibility as well as being biodegradable.
4. Moreover, it provides protection for contents through the use of nanoscale bacteriocidal and bacteriostatic to control growth and to reduce activities of microbes.
5. In addition, nanomaterials-based packaging adds unique security and anti-counterfeiting features.
Additionally, it is expected that the use of nanomaterials in packaging will play a significant role in decreasing food wastage in both developed and emerging economies. It will help in reducing dependence on petroleum-based packaging. It would help attain meeting. Furthermore, drive demand for sustainable packaging solutions with triggered biodegradability, but with the same mechanical properties as commonly used materials. In addition, it would ensure food safety and traceability for the entire supply chain.