Food packaging that can preserve contents and prevent oxidation and spoilage has become the subject of several research studies. As a result, we’ve been noticing many innovative solutions being developed. One solution gaining attention is the use of nanocomposites for food packaging. This is due to its wide range of applications in food safety, recyclability, and self-healing packaging.
Patent filings in Nanocomposites for Food Packaging are at an all-time high.
So, how are nanocomposites being used in packaging? Which companies are leading the research? Who is collaborating to develop new packaging solutions? Which countries are supporting this initiative?
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Who is working on Nanocomposites for Food Packaging?
Significant collaborations in Nanocomposites for Food Packaging
Haydale, a British tech and materials group, supplies functionalized Graphene Nano-platelets (GNPs) to NeoEnpla, a startup, for creating food-storage zipper bags and biodegradable plastic bags.
We also saw cross-industry collaborations in this domain. One such collaboration involved Nanocor and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical.
They developed nylon nanocomposites as a barrier layer for multi-layer PET bottles. These bottles can be used to package liquors, such as beer, and small carbonated soft drink beverages.
With a focus on improving biodegradability to simplify the post-consumption management of packaging materials and not cause adverse environmental impact.
Let’s take a look at the industry’s changing trends.
Nanocomposite packaging materials approved by UK and EU governments
Monolayer packaging films
Since using multiple layers in current packaging products makes the recycling process more complex, there has been a noticeable increase in both interest and funding for innovation projects to create monolayer packaging films.
Biopolymer
Previously, research in nano-enabled packaging was focused on Ag (silver) and TiO2 (Titanium Dioxide) nanoparticles in polymer matrices of LDPE (Low-density Polyethylene), PVC, and so on.
In recent years, research has shifted to bio-based nanoparticles, such as nanocellulose and Chitin/chitosan-based nanoparticles, to form nanocomposites with desired properties.
Functional advancement
With a significant focus on the material’s functional advancements, barrier properties, strength, and resistance to logistical stresses are among the sought-after qualities, especially in food and beverage packaging.
Since food preservation is a top priority, researchers at Shanghai Ocean University have developed an esterified nanocomposite film with preservation properties.
Let’s have a look at their research.
Maintaining the nutritional value of food
The film is made from modified carboxymethyl nano cellulose (CMNC), which is antibacterial and oxidation-resistant.
The base material is a degradable polymer called polybutylene adipate/terephthalate (PBAT), which also confers antibacterial and antioxidant properties to the film.
Moreover, this film is eco-friendly, safe, and reliable.
These researchers have also filed a patent (CN114410077A) to protect their innovation.
Conclusion
The nanocomposites have drawn the attention not only of business organizations but also of government bodies across the globe.
The European Union recently started funding research projects in Packaging technology using Nano-enabled bio-based materials to upscale them for market applications.
Similarly, the UK Government funds innovations in nanocomposite monomers with high barrier properties for food packaging applications.
These investments show that this sustainable solution is bound to trend in the sustainable packaging industry.
But that’s not all! Want to know more about the developments in this technology?
Authored By: Ambuj, Navjit, and Sushant, Patent Intelligence
Edited By: Ridhima, Marketing
