This review examines the recent trends, current technology and future challenges in
applications of biopolymers as food packaging materials, together with potential solutions,
as well as discussing the major safety concerns regarding food packaging materials
produced from sustainable and renewable resources. As food contact materials,
biopolymers are increasingly being utilized as alternatives to conventional plastics obtained
from oil derivatives. This review covers most of the available polymers, focusing on the …

Oil-derived plastics are the most commonly used materials for packaging because of their
features, low cost, and availability of resources for manufacturing [1]. Their annual
production continues to increase and, currently, the packaging sector still accounts for over
40% of the total worldwide plastic consumption, mainly because of the wide range of
properties of plastics, which can be tailored according to the product requirement [2].
Polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, and polystyrene …