How edible packaging material for future sustainable growth?
How edible packaging material for future sustainable growth?
Edible packaging film are stand-alone structures that have the appearance and protective functions similar to synthetic polymer films. However, they comprise edible proteins, polysaccharides, lipids and resins, and other components that render them edible.
Thus, it can be consumed with a packaged product, resulting in less packaging that requires disposal. Also, since edible films are made from renewable resources, they contribute to packaging sustainability.
Usage of edible packaging material
Edible films by convention have thicknesses ≤of 10 mils ( ≤0.254 mm), above which they would be considered sheets. It can be used as food wraps, and some can be formed as food casings or can be heat-sealed into pouches for food products.
Edible packaging on foods
Edible film packaging can also be included as coatings directly on the surfaces of food and pharmaceutical products, thus becoming a part of the product.
Present uses of edible films include:
Collagen casings on sausages inhibit moisture loss and oxygen transport and provide structural integrity.