Recent advancement in improvement of properties of polysaccharides and proteins based packaging film with added nanoparticles: A review

Innovations and research on packaging materials are in a fast-growing stage to make them suitable for advanced packaging innovations and sustainability efforts. Biological macromolecules like algal polysaccharides, chitosan, gelatin and others like starch are explored for developing eco-friendly packaging alternatives. Compared to conventional synthetic polymers they have performance limitations that are tried to be overcome with added fillers. The unique properties of fillers in the nano range are explored for this. They can improve the overall property of polymer matrixes by improving barrier properties to oxygen and water vapour, increasing stability and mechanical strength. Exploring the possibilities of new nanoparticle-polymer combinations can bring novel properties in the packaging industry that can be used in smart and intelligent packaging areas. Thus studies on nanocomposite films from polysaccharides, protein compounds and nanoparticles can help to overcome the limitations of bio-polymers for novel packaging applications. This review covers the effect of nanoparticles on the optical, morphological, barrier, thermal and mechanical properties of polysaccharides and proteins based packaging film, along with the types of nanoparticles used in the composite films.