“Heaven’s Light Is Our Guide”

RAJSHAHI UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING &

TECHNOLOGY
Department of Chemical and Food Process Engineering

Assignment
on
Application of biodegradable materials in food packaging.
SUBMITTED BY__
Kamran Siddique
Roll: 1811027
Department of CFPE
Session: 2018-19

SUBMITTED TO__
Md. Sajjad Hossain
Assistant Professor
Dept. of Chemical and Food Process Engineering.
Abstract
The demand for biodegradable materials is a significant challenge nowadays
due to the significant volume of plastic waste that is produced daily by human
activity. Understanding the polymer's manufacturing and material properties is
necessary for the production of bio based products. If the native properties of
the polymer do not match those needed or if the polymer is not naturally
thermoplastic, a specific modification of the polymer must be made. Currently,
single-use, disposable, and short-life packaging materials, service ware items,
disposable non-woven, and coating for paper and paperboard applications are
the main targets of bio based plastic applications. The focus of current research
is on bio based materials that must be able to imitate the water barriers of
currently used conventional materials.

Introduction
For a long time polymers have supplied most of common packaging materials
because they present several desired features like softness, lightness and
transparency. However, increased use of synthetic packaging films has led to a
serious ecological problems due to their total non-biodegradability. Although
their complete replacement with eco-friendly packaging films is just impossible
to achieve, at least for specific applications like food packaging the use of
bioplastics should be the future. This paper aims to present an overview of
biodegradable materials for food packaging and their potential advantages over
traditional packaging materials.

Types of biodegradable materials: There are different types of biodegradable

polymers that can be classified into three groups according to their origin:
 Natural polymers such as starch, cellulose and proteins
 Modified natural polymers
 Synthetic polymers such as PLA
Starch-Based Materials: Starch-based materials are derived from renewable
resources, primarily corn, wheat, or potato starch. These materials possess
biodegradability, low cost, and good mechanical properties. Starch can be
processed into films, coatings, and foam trays, making it suitable for various
food packaging needs. [1]
Polylactic Acid (PLA): Polylactic acid, derived from renewable resources such
as cornstarch or sugarcane, is a biodegradable polymer with excellent barrier
properties. PLA offers similar transparency and mechanical strength to
traditional plastics, making it suitable for various food packaging applications.
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs): PHAs are a group of biopolymers produced by
microbial fermentation using renewable feedstocks. These biodegradable
materials exhibit good barrier properties and can be tailored to meet specific
packaging requirements.

Applications of Biodegradable Food Packaging:

Biodegradable food packaging offers numerous benefits to both the
environment and consumers.
As consumers become more conscious of sustainability and the environmental
impact of their choices, biodegradable food packaging has gained popularity in
various industries. Some of its applications include:
1. Reduced plastic waste: Biodegradable food packaging helps reduce the
accumulation of plastic waste in landfills and oceans. Traditional plastic
packaging can take hundreds of years to degrade, while biodegradable
alternatives break down more quickly, reducing their environmental impact.
2. Compostable packaging: Biodegradable food packaging can be designed to
be compostable, meaning it breaks down into organic matter that can be used as
nutrient-rich compost for plants. This creates a closed-loop system where food
packaging becomes a valuable resource instead of waste.
3. Food containers: Biodegradable packaging can be used for takeaway food
containers, ensuring that the packaging is eco-friendly and does not contribute
to pollution. It is particularly useful for restaurants, food trucks, and catering
businesses.
4. Single-use cutlery: Biodegradable forks, spoons, knives, and straws made
from materials like cornstarch or sugarcane are alternatives to traditional plastic
cutlery that takes centuries to decompose.
5. Beverage cups: Biodegradable cups made from materials like paper or PLA
(polylactic acid) can replace plastic cups for serving cold drinks, reducing
environmental impact and supporting waste management efforts.
6. Wraps and bags: Biodegradable wraps and bags made from materials like
beeswax or biodegradable films can be used to package fruits, vegetables,
sandwiches, and other perishable items. These materials are often compostable,
promoting a more sustainable waste management system. [2]
7. Bakery packaging: Biodegradable materials can be used for packaging baked
goods like bread, pastries, and cookies, ensuring that the packaging aligns with
environmentally friendly practices.
8. Eco-friendly trays and clamshells: Biodegradable trays and clamshell
containers made from sustainable materials can be used for packaging ready-to-
eat meals and other food items, reducing plastic waste and environmental harm.
9. Produce packaging: Biodegradable mesh bags or wraps can be used to
package fruits and vegetables instead of traditional plastic bags, promoting
sustainability in grocery stores and supermarkets.
10. Eco-conscious branding: Businesses that use biodegradable food packaging
can market themselves as environmentally responsible, attracting eco-conscious
consumers and enhancing their brand reputation.

Conclusion:
In near future, plastic waste will be the main cause of environmental damage.
Gradually we must limit the use of plastics and increase the uses of
biodegradable materials. Biodegradable materials offer a sustainable solution
for food packaging, reducing the environmental impact of conventional plastics.
Polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, starch based materials, and chitosan are
promising alternatives that possess desirable properties for food packaging
applications. By embracing these materials and promoting sustainable practices,
the packaging industry can contribute to a safe future while ensuring the safety
and integrity of food products and our beautiful natural resources. [3]

References

[1] S. I. D. P. S. A. N. M. Vert M., "Degradable polymers," 2002. [Online]. Available:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8954184/#B1-polymers-14-01126.

[2] S. M. K. K. A.-K. M. A. N. A. a. W. C. M. Hussain, 2022. [Online].

[3] i. Suprakas Sinha Ray, "Environmentally Friendly Polymer Nanocomposites," 2013.

[Online]. Available: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemical-
engineering/biodegradable-polymer.