Progress in the development of photoactivated materials for smart and active food packaging: Photoluminescence and photocatalysis approaches

Damage, contamination, or waste of foods during their storage, transportation and sale are serious challenges to global food security. Innovative packaging materials are being developed to tackle these problems. Active packaging materials are being developed to extend the shelf life of foods by including antimicrobials or antioxidants. Smart packaging materials are being developed to monitor the quality, maturity, and safety of foods in real time. Photoactivated materials capable of photoluminescence or photocatalysis are being utilized to fabricate these smart and active food packaging. Photoluminescence-based sensors can be used to monitor environmental changes in food packaging, such as gas leakage, freshness, and the presence of specific microorganisms. Photocatalysis-based devices can be used as color indicators, as well as to inhibit a broad spectrum of microbes and for gas removal. This review summarizes the latest research on the application of photoactivated materials in smart and active food packaging. The preparation, operating principles, applications of photoactivated materials in food packaging materials are discussed, as well as their potential advantages and disadvantages. The knowledge presented may stimulate more research on the development and application of innovative smart and active food packaging materials in the food industry.